Residents find refuge in Austin's cold weather shelter during freezing nights.
As a cold snap approaches, Austin has announced the opening of overnight weather shelters from January 5 to January 9, 2025, to protect residents from freezing temperatures. Registration will take place each evening at One Texas Center, with multiple transportation options available. The initiative aims to provide a safe haven along with meals and shelter for both individuals and their pets. Additional resources include after-hours transport, hotel vouchers, and updates via text alerts. The city emphasizes the importance of taking precautions against severe cold conditions.
As the temperature dips dangerously low, the vibrant city of Austin is taking action to ensure that its residents stay safe and warm. From January 5 through January 9, 2025, the city will open overnight cold weather shelters in response to a forecast predicting freezing temperatures. This is a much-needed initiative as temperatures at Camp Mabry are expected to hit 35 degrees Fahrenheit or below.
If you or someone you know needs a warm place to stay during this chilly snap, registration for the shelters will occur every evening from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the One Texas Center located at 505 Barton Springs Road. This location won’t just be where you sign up; it will also act as the main transportation hub for anyone looking for shelter. So, whether you’re walking, biking, or catching a bus to get there, it’s easy to access.
Getting to One Texas Center is a breeze with several bus routes available, including lines 1, 7, 10, 20, 30, 105, 142, and 801. Remember, transportation is crucial, and if you find yourself in a situation where you can’t pay the fare, no worries! The city has you covered, and you’ll still be able to catch a ride to a cold-weather shelter.
Need to head to a shelter outside of the original bus departure times? Not a problem! An after-hours transportation service will be available allowing you to safely reach a shelter whenever you need to. And if you have a family with children or you’re an unaccompanied minor and shelters are full, hotel vouchers will be provided, ensuring that everyone has a safe place to rest.
Furry friends are welcome too! The cold weather shelters will allow pets, as long as they are non-aggressive, leashed, and can sleep with their owners. Just be sure to let the staff know if your pet requires a crate during registration. This is a great opportunity for you and your pet to stay cozy together.
No one should have to worry about going hungry, especially during tough times. Guests at the shelters will be provided with meals, making sure that you not only stay warm but also well-fed. For couples and women, designated areas will allow you to stay together, depending on shelter capacity. This initiative shows how far the city is willing to go to ensure a safe and welcoming environment for all.
For those wanting the latest updates on shelter availability and activation, the best bet is to check AustinTexas.gov/Alerts or call the Cold Weather Shelter Hotline at 512-972-5055. This is an excellent way to stay in the loop as the city’s Homeless Strategy Office typically decides to activate these shelters a day in advance based on the temperature forecasts.
Another handy resource is the city’s text alert system, which will send updates directly to registered individuals. It’s an efficient way to ensure you’re not left in the cold—literally and figuratively!
As we brace for this cold front, it’s vital to be aware of the potential risks associated with freezing weather. On Monday morning, wind chills are anticipated to plunge into the teens and single digits. Hypothermia is a serious risk, with hundreds to over a thousand deaths in the U.S. each year attributed to extreme cold conditions. Don’t take chances; make sure to secure shelter for yourself and loved ones if needed.
So, Austin residents, remember to stay warm and take advantage of the shelters available during this cold weather period. Help is just around the corner, and the city is doing everything it can to ensure the comfort, safety, and warmth of its residents during these frigid nights.
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