PASCO COUNTY, Fla. – Pasco County officials are moving quickly to protect residents from a looming cold front, announcing that emergency shelters will open their doors this coming Monday and Tuesday. With a blast of frigid air expected to settle over the region on February 23 and 24, the county is prioritizing safety for those who lack a warm place to stay.
Both sides of the county will have facilities available to the public. In Spring Hill, the Shady Hills Mission Chapel at 15925 Greenglen Lane will serve as a primary site. Residents on the east side of the county can seek warmth at the First Nazarene Church of Zephyrhills, located at 6151 12th Street.
Both locations are scheduled to open at 6 p.m. each evening and will remain operational until 10 a.m. the following morning. Local organizers emphasize that these spaces are open to anyone needing a reprieve from the dropping temperatures.
While the primary goal is providing beds for the night, safety experts are also issuing a broader warning to the community. The anticipated weather conditions can be particularly hazardous for people spending extended time outdoors. Vulnerable groups, including children and the elderly, face higher risks during these spikes in extreme cold. Officials are also reminding residents to bring pets indoors or provide them with adequate insulation, as the cold can be just as dangerous for animals as it is for humans.
For those needing more specific details or directions, the Shady Hills location can be reached at 727-856-2948, while the Zephyrhills site is available at 615-483-4356.
County representatives urge residents to plan ahead and check on neighbors before the sun goes down on Monday.
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