Lmst

YIKES! Fierce winter storm causes 100-car #pileup, brings #snow and #DeepFreeze to #Midwest, #Northeast

Updated on: January 19, 2026

Excerpt: "A sudden lake effect snow storm resulted in a stretch of dozens of wrecked vehicles along the side of the highway near #GrandRapids, @Michigan, and the same arctic weather pattern has brought unusually frigid weather to as far south as #Florida.

"Several people were injured on Monday after more than 100 vehicles, including as many as 40 tractor-trailers, piled up in western Michigan due to intense snowfall wreaking havoc on the roads across the Great Lakes, local officials said. None of the injuries were life-threatening, the Ottawa County Sheriff's Office said.

" 'It was absolute chaos,' said Stephanie Biesboer, who was caught in the pileup. 'Everyone was everywhere. People out of their cars. People rushing around trying to get the ambulances through."

"The I-196 in #ZeelandTownship was expected to be closed for several hours for the removal and clean up of vehicles, CBS Detroit reported.

"The crash is the latest impact of the major winter storm moving across the country. Some areas along the Great Lakes saw at least 9 inches of snow, according to CBS News meteorologist Rob Marciano. Forecasters warned Monday that freezing temperatures are possible overnight into Tuesday across much of north-central Florida and southeast Georgia."

https://www.cbsnews.com/news/winter-storm-arctic-blast-snow-forecast-midwest-northeast/

#ArcticBlast #Pileup

When #Maine #WarmingCenters can’t keep up with demand: ‘We are tasked with life and death decisions’

Advocates say #overnight facilities are essential in Maine, but services are limited and it is increasingly difficult to meet the need in communities, including those in #YorkCounty.

by Gillian Graham, January 11, 2026

BIDDEFORD — "Vassie Fowler feels a heavy burden when the doors of the warming center open.

"On the top floor of a former church, more than 50 homeless people unfold antigravity chairs and blankets to settle in and try to sleep each night. On evenings when temperatures dip into the single digits, the center will squeeze in up to 60.
But Seeds of Hope can’t make room for everyone.

" 'We know if we say no, there’s no other option for people,' said Fowler, executive director of the nonprofit on South Street. 'We are tasked with what feels like life and death decisions.'

"Advocates for the homeless population say warming centers are essential in Maine, where it can be dangerous and deadly to go unsheltered during winter months. But in a state with limited services, they say it is increasingly difficult to meet the need in many communities, including those in #YorkCounty, where there are no spots at overnight facilities for most of the hundreds of people who are homeless.
In September, Gov. Janet Mills and MaineHousing announced $2.3 million in grants to support 12 emergency warming centers across the state this winter in Bangor, Portland, Ellsworth, Presque Isle, Waterville, Lewiston, Biddeford, Sanford, Augusta and Brunswick.

"Some, like Seeds of Hope, are open every night.

"Others are more restricted: Portland only opens its shelter when the temperature is below 15 degrees or more than 10 inches of snow are expected; and in Sanford, the only center has 16 beds and is limited to families with children.

"People who are unsheltered in Sanford feel helpless and discouraged, said Rebecca Jackson, co-founder of It Takes a Village 207, a nonprofit that provides support and resources to people in the city.

" 'When temperatures reach dangerously low levels, access to warmth is not a luxury — it is a matter of survival,' Jackson said. 'Without accessible, low-barrier places to warm up, people are left with impossible choices that put their health and lives at risk.'

[...]

"On Wednesday afternoon, 28-year-old Brooke Paul huddled near a doorway at a shopping plaza in downtown Sanford. She said she has been homeless for six years and sleeps in a tent in the woods near a walking trail.

"During the day, she tries to warm up by going into local businesses until she is asked to leave. At night, she layers her clothes and uses as many blankets as she can.

" 'The other night was freezing. It sucks,' she said. She wishes there was a nearby warming center.

" 'Why wouldn’t there be?' she said."

Archived version:
https://archive.md/6zqQD

@newsbot

#Unhoused #Homeless #Houseless #ArcticBlast #PolarVortex #ExtremeCold #OvernightShelters #WarmingShelters #WarmingSheltersInMaine

#BangorME Area Homeless Shelter ends winter warming center

8/19/2025
by Brittany McHatten

BANGOR, Maine (WABI) - "It’s not even Labor Day yet, but an early-season cool spell has some Mainers planning ahead for colder months.

"That includes the Bangor Area Homeless Shelter which is moving forward with previously-announced plans to forgo its overnight warming center this winter.

"Shelter officials say they ran their overnight warming center for seven years. But, when they closed in March, they decided they wouldn’t reopen in the fall.

"That’s mainly due to the high cost of staffing, but the numbers weren’t making sense either.

"The shelter’s executive director says at one point there were 15 people in the warming center, but 11 of the 38 beds upstairs were open.

"With the planned addition of five mats on a temporary basis, they hope to help fill some of the gaps that will be left behind.

" 'One of the questions I was asked is: with us closed, will there still be enough room for people? There wasn’t enough room for people with us open, either. Seven or eight years ago when we started, we had about two-dozen people who were outside. That number now is probably 100 times, if not more than that, with people we have who are outside,' said Boyd Kronholm, executive director, Bangor Area Homeless Shelter. 'Although there is a need for this service, we’re just not able to provide it.'

"The plan is for those five additional beds to come open November 1st until the end of April.

"Bangor will have two remaining overnight warming centers. They’re located at the Brick Church on Union Street and The Mansion Church on Center Street."

Source:
https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/other/bangor-area-homeless-shelter-ends-winter-warming-center/ar-AA1KPt6C

#Unhoused #Maine #Homeless #Houseless #WarmingShelters #OvernightShelters #ArcticBlast #PolarVortex

#PortlandME unlikely to change winter shelter threshold amid staffing, funding limits

The winter shelter opens when the daily low temperature drops to 15 degrees or below, or if the city gets more than 10 inches of snow.

Author: Katie Delaney
Published: 2:12 PM EST January 14, 2026
Updated: 2:12 PM EST January 14, 2026

PORTLAND, Maine — "The city of Portland likely won’t be changing the criteria to open its winter warming shelter this season.

"Right now, the shelter opens when the daily low temperature drops to 15 degrees or below, or if the city gets more than 10 inches of snow.

City officials met to discuss the threshold and the possibility of making changes to it at a Health & Human Services & Public Safety Committee meeting Tuesday night.

"Despite some recent criticism about the temperature threshold, city leaders who spoke at the meeting said making changes to when the shelter is open this season does not seem feasible.

"This is the first year the city has operated a winter warming shelter. According to Maggie McLoughlin, Portland’s Director of Health & Human Services, it costs about $7,700 a night to operate the shelter. Most of that cost is from staffing.

"With that cost, the shelter has enough funding to be open for 50 nights this winter. It has been open for 12 nights so far.

"McLoughlin said if the city changed the temperature threshold even by just a few degrees, it would make a big difference. If the threshold went up to 20 degrees instead of 15, for example, she said the shelter would be open for an extra 14 to 21 nights, adding an extra $108,000 to $201,000 dollars.

That would take more staff, too—something McLoughlin said is already limited. Last month the shelter was closed for a weekend, despite meeting the temperature threshold, because of a lack of staff."

@newsbot

#Maine #Unhoused #HomelessShelter #WarmingShelter #Houseless #ArcticBlast #PolarVortex #ExtremeCold

#Saskatoon women’s-only #WarmingCentre seeing alarming numbers

By Ashley Beherns Global News
Posted January 8, 2026

Excerpt: "The women’s-only shelter in Saskatoon has seen concerning numbers this winter, with 4,030 visits from women within the two months since opening, 92 per cent being #Indigenous.

" 'Out of those 4,030 interactions, it’s come out to be about 550 different women that are accessing services. So, that a woman could be there for five minutes, five hours, five days, whatever it may be, that’s what we mean,' Tribal Chief Mark Arcand of the #SaskatoonTribalCouncil said.

" 'So, it’s alarming to see that many women in need inside of two months for our services.'

"The Saskatoon Tribal Council was asked to run the women’s warmup shelter this winter. It opened on Nov. 7 at the old bus depot downtown, running 14 hours a day, but they transitioned to Avenue C on Dec. 22 which is open 24 hours a day."

#FirstNations #IndigenousWomen #DomesticViolence #Homelessness #Homeless #Unhoused #ArcticBlast #ColdWeather #PolarVortex

#Minnesota - In the Heart of #Minneapolis’ Urban Indian Community, a #WarmingCenter Becomes a Lifeline

#Indigenous-led groups open a culturally grounded warming shelter as federal enforcement and life-threatening temperatures collide

by MSR News Online January 18, 2026

Excerpt: "As dangerously cold temperatures grip Minnesota, #unsheltered community members face escalating risk across the #TwinCities. For Native people living without stable housing, that danger is compounded by recent federal immigration enforcement [#ICE] activity in Minneapolis.

"This week, four members of the #OglalaSioux Tribe were detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement in Minneapolis. One person has died from exposure. The cold is severe, and the stakes are life and death.

"In the Phillips neighborhood, at the heart of one of the largest Urban Indian communities in the country, Indigenous-led organizations are responding where systems have fallen short.

"The Minnesota Indian Women’s Resource Center and #NenookaasiOzhige have opened a culturally grounded, low-barrier warming shelter to provide safety, warmth, and protection for unsheltered Native relatives."

A list of other Shelter Resources in the Twin cities from #MIWRC [Minnesota Indian Women's Resource Center]

Source:
https://www.miwrc.org/shelters

SHELTER-Single

#AICDC - #HomewardBound (612) 354-7352
https://www.aicdc-mn.org/ info@aicdc-mn.org
2012 Cedar ave. Minneapolis, MN 55404
Native American

Salvation Army - Harbor Light Center 1-800-725-2769 https://centralusa.salvationarmy.org/northern/HarborLightCenter/provide-housing/
1010 Currie Avenue N, MINNEAPOLIS, Minnesota 55403
3 male / 3 Female shelters

Salvation Army 1-800-725-2769 https://centralusa.salvationarmy.org/northern/HarborLightCenter/provide-housing/
1010 Currie Avenue N, MINNEAPOLIS, Minnesota 55403
Female only

Catholic Charities-Higher Ground (612)204-8552 https://www.cctwincities.org/locations/higher-ground-shelter/ info@cctwincities.org 165 Glenwood Avenue North Minneapolis, MN 55405
Male only

Agate housing and services (612) 874-0311
https://agatemn.org/ info@agatemn.org
2309 Nicollet Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55404
1 Partners/ 1 Male only

Our Saviours Shelter (612) 872-4193
https://oscs-mn.org/our-saviours-housing/ communications@oscs-mn.org
2219 Chicago Ave. So. Minneapolis, MN 55404
Male and Female

Avivo Villages (612) 752-8000
https://avivomn.org/avivovillage/ intakereferrals@avivomn.org
1900 Chicago Avenue Minneapolis, MN 55404
Male and Female

SHELTER-Family

St. Anne's Place- Haven Housing (612) 521-2128
https://www.havenhousing.org/st-annes-place info@havenhousing.org
1803 Bryant Ave N, Minneapolis, MN 55411
Mothers and children

People Serving People (612) 332-4500
https://www.peopleservingpeople.org/
614 3rd St S, Minneapolis, MN 55415
Pregnant or households with young children

Hope for the Journey Home (651) 762-9124
https://www.guardian-angels.org/hope/ contactgac@guardian-angels.org
8260 4th Street North, Oakdale, MN US 55128
Family focused group

SHELTER-Youth

Avenues for Youth (612) 522-1690
https://avenuesforyouth.org/resources-and-support/ info@avenuesforyouth.org
1708 Oak Park Avenue N. Minneapolis, MN 55411
Youth shelter in Minneapolis and Brooklyn Center age 16-21

Catholic Charities-Hope Street (612) 204-8211 https://www.cctwincities.org/locations/hope-street/ info@cctwincities.org
4140 Cheatham Ave Minneapolis, MN 55406
18-24 years old

The Bridge for Youth (612) 377-8800
https://bridgeforyouth.org/ development@bridgeforyouth.org
1111 W 22nd St, Minneapolis, MN 55405
Resilience House 10-17/ Gloria's Place pregnant and parent youth 15-17 &0-3 ages children

The Link (763) 703-3434
Referrals https://thelinkmn.org/programs/housing-services-division/the-dignity-house/ ahandberg@thelinkmn.org
1210 Glenwood Ave Minneapolis, MN 55405
Dignity House 10-17/ Passageways sexually exploited 10-17

180 Degrees Brittanys Place (651) 287-4801
https://www.180degrees.org/brittanys-place-500008-929783.html brittanys.place@180degrees.org
1281 7th Street East, St. Paul, MN 55106
Sexually Exploited 10-17

180 Degrees Hope House (612) 900-2077
https://www.180degrees.org/hope-house.html Hope.House@180degrees.org
3010 W 78th St, Excelsior, MN 55331
14-19 years old

YMCA of the North safe Stay (763) 493-3052 Appointment https://www.ymcanorth.org/how_we_help/help_kids_thrive/youth_and_family_services/resources
2304 Jackson Street NE Minneapolis, MN 55418
Under 24 homeless or at risk youths.

Youths Services Network https://ysnmn.org/ Shows open beds in shelters. Has links for services across the metro and suburbs.

#NativeAmericans #Unhoused #Shelters #EmergencyShelters #ICESucks #ArcticBlast #PolarVortex

Housing and Space Guidelines for Livestock

Housing

Farm animals need some kind of shelter to escape the elements. It is commonly thought that winter is the most important time to provide shelter, but an animal’s natural coat can allow them to tolerate much colder temperatures than people can. Summer heat can be harder on animals than winter if shade is not available to them, either by trees or structures if they are out on pasture. Similarly, lack of ventilation in a barn or building can also be detrimental to animal health. Many livestock animals like pigs and rabbits do not sweat, which increases the risk of heat stroke and decreases overall production. A simple, three-sided shelter with an open front will meet the needs of many farm animals on pasture and is often the building of choice to raise healthy livestock. When designing a three-sided animal shelter, make sure the open side faces south, away from prevailing winds. Locate the structure on an elevated, well-drained site and keep winter access in mind for feeding and water handling.

*Refer to the Manual of Best Management Practices (BMPs) for Agriculture in New Hampshire for specific guidelines on proper animal waste handling and barnyard management. For a print copy of the manual, contact the New Hampshire Department of Agriculture, Markets & Food, at 603-271-3551.

There are several factors to consider when planning adequate livestock shelter in cold weather:

- Air quality: Animal shelters should be open, providing natural ventilation, or enclosed, using fans and proper air inlets around the ceiling perimeter to provide good air circulation. Tight buildings result in a buildup of respiration gases, and animal odors, which can irritate the animal’s lungs and cause pneumonia. Dangerous ammonia levels1 can also build up and lead to suffocation death of animals and their caretakers.

- Drafts: Animals can stand cold temperatures, but you should protect them from drafts. Constructing panels in front of an open building can reduce drafts. Consider drafts at animal height, not person height. When animals are allowed to run loose in a pen instead of being hitched, they will search for the most comfortable spots as needed.

- Dry bedding area: Animals will be far more comfortable in the cold if they have clean, dry bedding. A thick, dry bed provides insulation from the cold ground and decreases the amount of energy the animal has to expend to keep warm. Shelter from the snow and rain allows an animal’s coat to remain dry, which provides maximum insulating value.

- Fresh water: All animals need water to survive. Under cold conditions, provide fresh water often or use freeze-proof watering devices. Animals will drink more when water is 50°F.

- Adequate food: Animals can endure severe cold temperatures if they eat enough food (energy) to maintain their energy reserves (body fat). Animals need energy for growth, maintenance and production. Extra energy is expended to keep warm. Therefore, they will require additional amounts of good quality feed during cold weather. For herbivores, free choice hay in hay racks should be supplied in addition to a species-appropriate concentrate or prepared ration."

Source:
https://extension.unh.edu/resource/housing-and-space-guidelines-livestock#:~:text=There%20are%20several%20factors%20to%20consider%20when%20planning%20adequate%20livestock%20shelter%20in%20cold%20weather%3A

#AnimalSafety #ColdWeatherSafety #AnimalSafetyTips #ArcticBlast #Homesteading #PolarVortex

#ASPCA - #ColdWeather Safety Tips

"Exposure to winter’s dry, cold air and chilly rain, sleet and snow can cause chapped paws and itchy, flaking skin, but these aren’t the only discomforts pets can suffer. Winter walks can become downright dangerous if chemicals from ice-melting agents are licked off of bare paws. To help prevent cold weather dangers from affecting your pet’s health, check out our top 10 cold weather safety tips from our experts at the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (APCC).

- Remember, if it’s too cold for you, it’s probably too cold for your pet, so keep your animals inside. If left outdoors, pets can freeze, become disoriented, lost, stolen, injured or killed. In addition, don’t leave pets alone in a car during cold weather, as cars can act as refrigerators that hold in the cold and cause animals to freeze to death.
- Keep your home humidified and be sure to towel dry your pet as soon as they come inside. Repeatedly going into the cold and then comin back into a warm home can cause itchy, flaking skin. Pay close attention to their feet and in-between their toes and remove any snow balls from between their foot pads to prevent and treat skin irritation in the winter.
- Massage petroleum jelly or other vet-approved paw protectants into paw pads before going outside to protect from salt and chemical agents. Booties can provide even more coverage and can also prevent sand and salt from getting lodged between bare toes and causing irritation. Use pet-friendly ice melts whenever possible.
- Never shave your dog down to the skin in winter. A longer coat will provide more warmth. If your dog is long-haired, simply trim them to minimize the clinging ice balls, salt crystals and de-icing chemicals that can dry their skin, and don’t neglect the hair between their toes. If your dog is short-haired, consider getting them a coat or sweater with a high collar or turtleneck with coverage from the base of the tail to the belly.
- After each walk, make sure to wash and dry your pet's feet and stomach to remove ice, salt and chemicals. Don't forget to check for cracks in paw pads or redness between the toes. You may also want to bring a towel on long walks to clean off stinging, irritated paws.
- Bathe your pets as little as possible during cold spells. Washing too often can remove essential oils and increase the chance of developing dry, flaky skin. If your pooch must be bathed, ask your vet to recommend a moisturizing shampoo and/or rinse.
- Thoroughly clean up any anitfreeze spills. Like coolant, antifreeze is a lethal for dogs and cats. Be sure to thoroughly clean up any spills from your vehicle, and consider using products that contain propylene glycol rather than ethylene glycol. Additionally, cold weather chemicals like #IceMelts can be dangerous when ingested, so always be mindful and keep chemicals up and out of paws' reach.
- Feed your pet a little extra in the winter months. Pets burn extra energy by trying to stay warm in wintertime. Feeding them a little bit more can provide much-needed calories, and making sure they have plenty of water to drink will help keep them well-hydrated and their skin less dry.
- Make sure your companion animal has a warm place to sleep, off the floor and away from all drafts. A cozy dog or cat bed with a warm blanket or pillow is perfect.
- Never let your dog off leash on snow or ice, especially during a snowstorm. Dogs can lose their scent in the snow and easily become lost. More dogs are lost during the winter than during any other season, so make sure your dog always wears an ID tag.

Be sure to keep these tips top of mind this winter so that you and your furry friends can stay warm, cozy and safe.

If you think your pet may have ingested antifreeze or another potential toxin, contact your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 immediately."

Source:
https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/general-pet-care/cold-weather-safety-tips

#PetSafety #ArcticBlast #PolarVortex #IceMelt #ExtremeCold #PetSafetyTips

#Vermont - Upper Valley Haven

Providing temporary shelter and housing support for people experiencing homelessness

"Finding and securing permanent housing can be challenging. To get assistance with navigating housing processes, referrals, landlord communication, and more, please call (802) 295-6500. We offer housing services to people who are experiencing or at risk of homelessness.

Are you camping and in need of services? We are happy to provide you with resources and guidance even if you don’t choose to explore permanent housing right now."

https://uppervalleyhaven.org/get-help/help-with-shelter/

Information about shelters:
https://uppervalleyhaven.org/programs/shelters/

To donate:
https://uppervalleyhaven.org/current-wish-lists/

@newsbot

#Unhoused #Houseless #Homeless #TransitionalHousing #FoodAssistance #StayWarm #ArcticBlast #PolarVortex

#Montreal #Canada - New #WarmingCentres offer relief to #unhoused Montrealers during bitter cold

Additional sites, including one in #Rosemont – #LaPetitePatrie, aim to fill critical gaps

CBC News · Posted: Jan 05, 2026

Excerpt: "According to Montreal’s website, the heated spaces are accessible daily during the cold season, in the evening and all night, and will remain open until March 31. Shuttles are available. Visitors can get snacks, hot drinks and referrals to other resources.

Five locations are listed on the city’s website, which says the aim is to co-habitate with the surrounding community. [See link below for locations]"

Source:
https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/montreal/montreal-unhoused-warming-centres-9.7034495

Warming centres: Places where unhoused people can relax
Last updated December 18, 2025

Homelessness in Montréal

The city has set up temporary warming centres for people experiencing homelessness. These heated spaces are accessible daily during the cold season, in the evening and all night, and will remain open until March 31, 2026. Visitors can get snacks, hot drinks and referrals to other resources.

Warming centres let people get out of the cold and spend the night in a warm, safe place. They are set up in various city or partner facilities and are run in collaboration with community organizations.

Registration is not required to use the centre.

Actions to promote cohabitation

Warming centres provide a safe and quiet place for unhoused people in the area. Teams and partners are on site to provide psychosocial support, cleanliness and ensure harmonious co-existence with the neighbourhood. Every possible measure has been put in place to limit noise and preserve a peaceful environment.

Safety and security are maintained through close collaboration between the Montréal police and community organizations. Strict rules and close surveillance on site prevent incivility and ensure respectful behaviour."

FMI:
https://montreal.ca/en/articles/warming-centres-places-where-unhoused-people-can-relax-100599

@newsbot

#ArcticBlast #WarmingShelters #WarmingCenters #Montreal #MontrealShelters #PolarVortex #StayWarm #Houseless #Homeless #HotDrinks #OvernightShelters

As bitter cold hits #Vermont, new shelters open for the first time this season

by VTDigger, December 9, 2025

Excerpts: "Emergency shelters in Barre and Brattleboro opened Thursday, offering relief to people without housing.

[...]

"These temperatures are not uncommon for Vermont in the winter, Danzig said, but he still recommended people to cover their face in higher winds to avoid frostbites, wear several layers of clothes and make sure pets are inside.

"The Office of Economic Opportunity at the Department for Children and Families has recently created a new Extreme Cold Weather Shelter Program, in partnership with Vermont Interfaith Action, to support people experiencing homelessness during periods of extreme cold.

"The program will operate from Dec. 1 to April 1, when temperatures reach at least -10 degrees Fahrenheit, with projects in #BenningtonVT, #BurlingtonVT, #NewportVT, #RutlandVT, #BarreVT, #MontpelierVT and #BrattleboroVT, Lily Sojourner, director of the Office of Economic Opportunity, said.

"The shelters in Barre and Brattleboro opened for the first time Thursday night and provided relief for 26 people, according to Sojourner. Sojourner said this program is just one of many others operating this winter, including the General Assistance Emergency Hotel Program and seasonal shelters across the state.

"Tess Taylor, homeless and housing liaison for the city of Barre, said the shelter at the Congregational Church also hosted people in need on Thursday. The space has a capacity of 12 people and will continue to operate when temperatures are around zero, providing food, cots and blankets, Taylor said."

https://thebridgevt.org/2025/12/as-bitter-cold-hits-vermont-new-shelters-open-for-the-first-time-this-season/

From the State of Vermont's website:

"#ExtremeCold Weather #Shelter Program Providers:

Bennington County – Bennington County Coalition for the Homeless
Chittenden County – Champlain Valley Office of Economic Opportunity
Northeast Kingdom – Northeast Kingdom Community Action
Rutland County – City of Rutland
Washington County – Barre Congregational Church & Montpelier Emergency Cold Weather Shelter, Inc.
Windham County – Brattleboro Emergency Winter Shelter Steering Committee

The State of Vermont’s Extreme Cold Weather Shelter Program (#ECWSP) is designed to support community-based emergency shelter operations during periods of extreme cold for individuals experiencing homelessness who have no other safe housing option. The goal of the ECWSP is to prevent cold-related illness or death by ensuring access to safe, temporary shelter during Vermont’s severe winter weather."

Link to Vermont's Extreme Cold Weather Shelter Program:
https://dcf.vermont.gov/oeo/programs/ECWSP

@newsbot

#EmergencySheltersVermont #EmergencyShelters #TransitionalHousing #Unhoused
#Homeless #Houseless #StayWarm #ArcticBlast #PolarVortex #Shelters

#Vermont’s #EmergencyShelter Providers
Need Shelter? Call 2-1-1

"ANEW Place #BurlingtonVT 802-862-9879

#BenningtonVT County Coalition for the Homeless Bennington 802-442-2424 (adults only) or 802-681-8062 (families only)

Capstone Community Action #BarreVT 802-479-1053 or 800-639-1053

Champlain Housing Trust, Elmwood Community Shelter #BurlingtonVT 802-209-5286

Charter House Coalition #MiddleburyVT 802-989-8621

COTS Burlington Main St. Family Center 802-864-7402

COTS Burlington Waystation 802-862-7776

CVOEO, The Champlain Place Burlington 802-540-1239

Good Samaritan Haven Barre / Berlin /#MontpelierVT 802-479-2294

Groundworks Collaborative #BrattleboroVT 802-257-5415

Homeless Prevention Center #RutlandVT 802-775-9286

John Graham Housing & Services #VergennesVT 802-877-2677

Lamoille Community House #HydeParkVT 802-521-7943

NEKCA St. Johnsbury The Shelter at #MooseRiverVT 802-624-0949

Open Door Mission #RutlandVT 802-775-5661

Samaritan House #StAlbansVT 802- 527-0847

Spectrum Youth & Family Burlington 802-864-7423

Springfield Supported Housing Program #SpringfieldVT 802-885-3034

Upper Valley Haven #HartfordVT 802-295-6500
Youth/Young Adults Shelters

Elevate Youth Services #MontpelierVT 802-229-9151

Spectrum Family & Youth Services Burlington 802-864-7423

Windsor County Youth Services #ProctorsvilleVT 802-228-6880

Interaction (Formerly Youth Services Inc.) #BellowsFallsVT 802-257-5415

Domestic & Sexual Violence Shelters

To find shelter and/or services near you, follow this LINK to the Vermont Network Against Domestic and Sexual Violence. IF YOU ARE IN DANGER – Call 911.

Other resources: In #ChittendenCounty call the 24-hour hotline at (802) 658-1996. If you are outside of Chittenden County, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at (800) 799-7233.

Updated February 2024."

@newsbot

https://helpingtohousevt.org/vermonts-emergency-shelter-providers/

#EmergencySheltersVermont #EmergencyShelters #TransitionalHousing #Unhoused #Homeless #Houseless #StayWarm #ArcticBlast #PolarVortex #Shelters

#WinterWeatherSafety - #Vermont Emergency Management

"Winter Storms

Be a good neighbor - Check on elderly or special needs relatives, friends, and neighbors, to make sure they are keeping warm safely and have sufficient food and water.

Carbon monoxide is a deadly, colorless, odorless, poisonous gas. CO poisoning can mimic flu-like symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, nausea, and fatigue. Higher levels of exposure result in disorientation, drowsiness, and unconsciousness. If you experience any symptoms leave the home and contact help.

Ensure all heating vents are clear of snow or other obstructions. Even if you don’t see significant snowfall, blowing snow can block heating vents. Blocked vents can lead to Carbon Monoxide buildup in the home. Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors now.

If you use a generator, ensure it is used outside, away from open windows, doors, or air intakes. Exhaust from a generator or heating source can cause a buildup of carbon monoxide in the home, which can be deadly.

Take it easy while shoveling. Overexertion can bring on a heart attack—a major cause of death during the winter.

Be prepared. Have a well-stocked Winter Home Emergency Supply Kit that includes flashlights, portable radio, extra batteries, a first aid kit, bottled water and non-perishable food.

See https://www.healthvermont.gov/environment/climate/winter-weather for more health safety information.

Power Outages

If you see a downed power line, leave it alone – always treat power lines as if they are live. A live wire can kill you.

If clearing trees or limbs make CERTAIN they are not in contact with a power line. Trees and branches can conduct electricity and electrocute you on contact.

Report outages to your power company.

Make sure your pipes are insulated. If your pipes freeze, know where the water shut off is and never use a blow torch or other open flame to thaw the pipes out. A hair dryer is one safe way to take care of the problem.

Never use an “improvised” heat source like grill or oven as they can be fire or carbon monoxide hazards.

Keep anything that can burn at least three feet from any heat source.

Travel

Check weather and road conditions before you leave.

Slow Down: Driving too fast on wintry roads is the leading cause of crashes.

Travel at a safe distance of at least 3 car lengths, leaving plenty of room to stop.

Clear all snow and ice from the vehicle prior to travel.

Be aware of black ice on what appears to be bare pavement.

If your vehicle becomes stuck in deep snow, do not let your engine idle if your exhaust pipe is buried. Idling with a buried exhaust pipe could lead to carbon monoxide poisoning.

Carry a cell phone and use 911 in case of an emergency, but do not become over dependent on a cell phone.

Flares or reflectors.

General Preparedness

Ensure your home has a sufficient supply of whatever you use as “fuel” to heat your home.

Have extra items on hand in case you can’t leave your house for a while.
Flashlight
Batteries
Battery powered radio
Water
Non-perishable foods
View a complete list from ready.gov

Ask your town where the nearest warming shelter would be should it be needed. Vermont 2-1-1 has a list of shelters when there are shelters open.

Winter Weather Terms

Freezing rain: Rain that freezes when it hits the ground, creating a coating of ice on roads and walkways

Sleet: Rain that turns to ice pellets before reaching the ground causing roads to freeze and become slippery

Winter Weather Advisory: Cold temperatures, ice and snow are expected

Winter Storm Watch: Severe weather such as heavy snow or ice is possible in the next day or two

Frost/Freeze Warning: Below freezing temperatures are expected

Winter Storm Warning: Severe winter conditions have begun or will begin very soon

Blizzard Warning: Heavy snow and strong winds will produce a blinding snow, near zero visibility, deep drifts and life-threatening wind chill

Translations in Arabic, Burmese, Dari, French, Kirundi, Nepali, Pashto, Somali, and Spanish are available as well.

Source:
https://vem.vermont.gov/preparedness/winter

#WinterWeather #WinterPreparedness #ExtremeCold #ColdWeatherPreparedness #ColdWeatherSafety #ArcticBlast #PolarVortex

#UnitedStates - #HomelessShelters and #Homeless Service Organizations.

"The Homeless Shelter Directory provides Homeless Shelters and Homeless Service Organizations. This includes all resources necessary to help the needy.

The directory was created for people who want to find and donate food and/or supplies to their local shelter."

https://www.homelessshelterdirectory.org/

@newsbot

#TransitionalShelters #Unhoused
#Houseless #ArcticBlast #PolarVortex #StayWarm #Shelters #FamilyShelters
#WomensShelters #YouthShelters #MensShelters

#Michigan #HomelessShelters

"The most complete list of shelters in Michigan. The shelters listed below are emergency shelters but many are general homeless shelters or transitional housing opportunities. Please note that many of these facilites have waiting lists (some are very long). Please call ahead to check availability first. "

@newsbot

#TransitionalShelters #Unhoused #Houseless #ArcticBlast #PolarVortex #StayWarm #Shelters #FamilyShelters #WomensShelters

#ChicagoIL #HomelessShelters and Services

"Welcome to our Chicago, Illinois Homeless Shelters and Services for the needy page. Below are all of the homeless shelters and services for the needy that provide help to those in need for Chicago, IL and surrounding cities.

We also provide other homeless resources such as transitional resources and services that help the needy."

https://www.homelessshelterdirectory.org/city/il-chicago

@newsbot

#TransitionalShelters #Unhoused #Houseless #Illinois #ArcticBlast #PolarVortex #StayWarm #Shelters #FamilyShelters #WomensShelters

#KeeneNH

For Those In Need Of Shelter:

Give us a call at (603) 352-5197, preferably after 3pm
Our Shelter Manager begins his shift at 3pm, so we will have a better idea of the number of beds available by that time.
Call the Human Services/Welfare Department of the Town you last paid rent in
Keene Residents: Call the City of Keene Human Services at (603) 357-9809
List of Cheshire County town offices and beyond
Call 2-1-1 New Hampshire to get connected with available shelters and resources
Check out our “Partner Agencies” page for Keene-area non-profits and community agencies that focus on food, housing, mental health, addiction services, and more."

FMI:
https://hundrednightsinc.org/homelessness/some-resources-if-you-are-facing-homelessness/

@newsbot

#ExtremeCold #PolarVortex #ArcticBlast #WarmingShelter #OvernightShelter #WarmingCenters #Unhoused #Houseless #Homeless #EmergencyShelters

#SouthCarolina, #NorthCarolina - Shelters open in Upstate, WNC as extreme cold weather hits area

By Lorenza Medley
Published: Jan. 18, 2026 at 9:11 AM EST

#BuncombeCounty

According to Our Voice, #CodePurple has been issued for #AshevilleNC and Buncombe County until Monday, Jan. 19. Entry begins at 6 p.m. and ends at 8 p.m.

The following shelters are open to those in need:

Safe Shelter at 27 Balm Grove
For women
Transit routes: W2, W1, W6
ABCCM Transformation Village at 30 Olin Haven Way
For women and women with children
Transit route: W2
Safe Shelter at 91 New Leicester Hwy
For men
Transit route: WE1 West
Salvation Army at 204 Haywood St.
For men
Transit routes: W5, WE1 West, WE2 West
Homeward Bound - AHOPE at 19 N. Ann Street
For couples and people with pets
Transit routes: W5, WE1 West, WE2 West

#PickensCounty

City of Clemson Police Department
Address: 1198 Tiger Blvd in Clemson
Times: Available for emergency needs

#SpartanburgCounty

Extreme Cold Weather Shelter
Address: 701 Saxon Ave. in Spartanburg
Times: 7 p.m. to 10 a.m. on a day-to-day basis

#OconeeCounty

Blue Ridge Community Center
Address: 315 Holland Ave. in #SenecaSC
Times: 8 p.m. to 8 a.m. until Tuesday, Jan. 20

#UnionCounty

C-4 Ministries is working with Union County to keep residents safe during the cold weather. Residents are asked to call 911 for information on shelters. C-4 will then get in contact with you for further information.

The shelter will be available until Wednesday, Jan. 21."

Source:
https://www.foxcarolina.com/2026/01/18/shelters-open-upstate-wnc-extreme-cold-weather-hits-area/

#ExtremeCold #PolarVortex #StayWarm #WarmingShelters #WamingCenters #ArcticBlast

#Finland - Thousands of tourists stranded after unexpected extreme weather leaves major region frozen over: 'It's simply too cold'

Timothy McGill, Sat, January 17, 2026

Excerpt: "It will be frigid in Finland this week. Cold warnings have been issued for large portions of the country through Thursday. The cold forced the cancellation of flights at an airport in northern Finland that stranded thousands of tourists on Sunday.

#Kittilä Airport is particularly busy this time of the year because the region it serves is popular with skiers. At one point, a leading ski resort reported that it had stopped running its chairlifts and gondolas because temperatures had dipped into the negative 30s Celsius (-22 F to -39.9 Fahrenheit).

This week's deep freeze in Finland is part of a weather pattern that has brought nasty winter weather, including heavy snowfall in spots, in parts of Europe."

#PolarVortex #ArcticBlast #ExtremeCold #EuropeWx #DeepFreeze

#PolarVortex blast to bring -35 wind chills, frostbite in 10 minutes to #Michigan

By Mark Torregrossa, Published: Jan. 16, 2026

"When are the coldest wind chills expected? Monday morning to Tuesday morning will have wind chills consistently in the -15 to -35 degree range. The peak of the coldest wind chills probably occur Monday evening."

Archived version:
https://archive.ph/uEIUM

#ExtremeCold #StayWarm #WindChills #ArcticBlast

#arcticblast

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