HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY, Fla. – With temperatures expected to plunge near freezing, Hillsborough County officials are activating emergency cold weather shelters for two consecutive nights starting Sunday.
The county announced the activation for Sunday, Jan. 18, and Monday, Jan. 19, following National Weather Service forecasts that predict temperatures will drop to or below 40 degrees—including wind chill—for at least two hours overnight. The shelters are designed to provide a safe haven for the homeless and residents living in homes without adequate heating.
Organizers are issuing a strong advisory alongside the announcement: capacity is limited and demand is expected to be high. Officials are urging residents to treat these shelters as a last resort and to stay with family or friends if at all possible.
READ: ‘A Flurry Of Problems’: Rare Snow Threatens Florida Panhandle And Southeast This Weekend
Intake for all locations will run from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. on both nights, though doors may close earlier if a site reaches its maximum occupancy.
The following locations have partnered with the county to offer shelter:
- Hyde Park United Methodist Church – 500 W. Platt St., Tampa
- Tampa Bay Mission of Hope – 110 S. Parsons Blvd., Brandon
- Church of God of Prophecy Hyde Park – 107 S. Oregon Ave., Tampa
- Amazing Love Ministries – 3304 E. Columbus Dr., Tampa
- Greater New Hope Church Anointed Ministries – 2104 Mud Lake Rd., Plant City
- The Portico – 1001 N. Florida Ave., Tampa
All congregate shelters listed are reserved for adults only.
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