Houston Opens 12 Warming Centers as Arctic Blast Approaches

Overview

• Twelve warming centers across Houston will open at 8 p.m. Wednesday to provide shelter during the arctic blast expected to bring temperatures as low as 27 degrees and wind chills in the teens.
• The centers will remain open until Thursday morning, with the city reassessing weather conditions to decide on further extensions.
• Ride-hailing services are available for those needing transportation to the centers, and families are encouraged to use the Northeast Multi-Service Center, which is designated for family accommodations.
• Mental health caseworkers will be stationed at the Fonde and Metropolitan warming centers to assist individuals dealing with anxiety and other challenges.
• This marks the second time Houston has opened warming centers this year, with officials working around a stringent policy requiring extreme cold conditions to activate shelters.