Jacksonville Prepares for Extreme Cold Weather with Warming Centers
Jacksonville, Fla. – The city of Jacksonville is taking proactive measures to assist residents during extreme cold conditions with the finalization of its 2024 Warming Center Contingency Plan. This initiative, led by the city’s Extreme Cold Task Force, aims to provide essential relief for individuals who may be vulnerable to the harsh winter temperatures.
What is the Warming Center Plan?
Under this plan, the City of Jacksonville will activate warming centers when temperatures are anticipated to drop to 27°F or below for two hours or more. These actions align with recommendations from the National Weather Service (NWS) Jacksonville. Additionally, the centers will open if the NWS issues a Hard Freeze Watch or Warning, a Cold Weather Advisory, or an Extreme Cold Watch or Warning.
When and Where Will Centers Be Open?
As of December 4, 2024, no countywide Cold Weather Emergency has been declared, and the warming centers have not yet begun operating. However, if the needed conditions arise during the daytime from Monday to Saturday, warming centers will be available at all City of Jacksonville Public Libraries and Community Centers during their normal business hours. On Sundays and holidays, the Main Library and Legends Center will provide services from 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m..
For those needing overnight shelter from Monday to Sunday, including holidays, the Legends Center will be available. The exact hours of operations for the overnight needs will depend on forecasts provided by the NWS Jacksonville.
Transportation and What to Bring
The Jacksonville Transportation Authority (JTA) is also stepping in to assist by offering free transportation to the warming centers on designated Cold Weather Emergency days. It’s important for residents planning to use the warming centers to bring personal items. Suggested items include air mattresses, blankets, snacks, medications, and hygiene products. This is because the warming centers are not fully equipped like traditional shelters.
Collaboration with Non-Profit Organizations
The City of Jacksonville is collaborating closely with several non-profit organizations to provide enhanced shelter services specifically for the homeless population. Currently, officials have stated that no unmet needs exist, and no individuals have been turned away due to cold weather.
Key partnerships include the Jacksonville Fire and Rescue Department (JFRD) with its PATH team (Providing Assistance to the Homeless), which is actively engaging with the homeless community to assess needs and deliver needed support.
Continuous Monitoring
The Extreme Cold Task Force will maintain a vigilant watch over weather developments and will continue collaborating with shelter partners, community organizations, and faith-based initiatives. This ongoing effort is to ensure that those in need have access to the necessary resources to stay warm during severe cold spells.
This dedicated response is a vital component of Jacksonville’s commitment to safeguarding the well-being of its residents during challenging weather conditions.
