Sat Mar 15 12:40:00 UTC 2025: **Chicago’s St. Patrick’s Day Festivities Return Amidst High Wind Warnings**

CHICAGO (March 14, 2024) – Chicago is gearing up for a weekend of St. Patrick’s Day celebrations, but strong winds and potential power outages are adding a weather-related element to the festivities. The Office of Emergency Management and Communications (OEMC) is urging residents and visitors to be aware of their surroundings and prepared for large crowds and significant street closures.

A High Wind Watch is in effect from Saturday morning until 3 p.m., with south winds of 30 to 40 mph and gusts up to 60 mph possible. A Wind Advisory is already in effect from Friday at 4 p.m. until Saturday at 1 a.m., with winds of 25 to 35 mph and gusts up to 50 mph expected. Residents are advised to secure loose objects and be prepared for potential power outages.

The city’s St. Patrick’s Day events, including the river dyeing, the downtown parade, and parades in the Northwest and South Sides, will proceed as planned with increased police presence. The OEMC, in conjunction with the Chicago Police Department, Chicago Fire Department, and other city agencies, will monitor events and weather conditions throughout the weekend.

**Key Event Information and Street Closures:**

* **River Dyeing (Saturday):** The Chicago River will be dyed green at 10 a.m. The Chicago Riverwalk will be closed from 11 p.m. Friday until 6 a.m. Sunday.
* **Downtown St. Patrick’s Day Parade (Saturday):** The parade starts at 12:15 p.m. Expect significant street closures downtown, beginning as early as 8 a.m. Security checkpoints will be in place. No coolers, alcoholic beverages, or large bags will be permitted.
* **Archer Avenue Parade (Saturday):** The parade starts at noon.
* **South Side Irish Parade (Sunday):** The parade starts at noon. Parking restrictions will be in effect.
* **Northwest Side Irish Parade (Sunday):** The parade starts at noon. Parking restrictions will be in effect.

The OEMC encourages residents to download the Chicago OEMC app for real-time updates on weather, street closures, and event information. They also remind everyone to report suspicious activity immediately by calling 911 or notifying onsite security. Public transportation is encouraged, and motorists should expect significant traffic delays and rerouting. For updated information, visit Chicago.gov/OEMC.

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