NEWS RELEASE

City of Houston Prepares for Cold Weather, Overnight Warming Centers Opening Sunday Evening

January 17, 2025 – As colder temperatures are expected to arrive in Houston early next week, the City of Houston Office of Emergency Management (OEM) is fully prepared to respond to the cold front and ensure the safety and well-being of residents. The City is working in close collaboration with various city departments and partner agencies to provide support and resources for the community during the expected cold weather.

Mayor John Whitmire has announced that starting Sunday, January 19, at 6 p.m., the City will open 10 warming centers across Houston to provide shelter and relief to those in need. The warming centers will remain open 24/7 until midday Thursday, January 23 (subject to change). Individuals who arrive with items will be allowed to keep their items with them while they are at the warming centers. The warming centers will be staffed with health and public safety personnel and equipped with basic necessities. OEM reminds Houstonians planning to use the warming centers to pack their medications and any special dietary needs. If someone needs a ride to a warming center, they can call 3-1-1 and request a Z-Trip that will take them to any open warming center.

Warming Centers locations:

  • Acres Homes Multi-Service Center: 6719 W Montgomery Rd.
  • Northeast Multi-Service Center: 9720 Spaulding St.
  • Kashmere Multi-Service Center: 4802 Lockwood Dr.
  • Moody Community Center: 3725 Fulton St.
  • Fonde Community Center: 110 Sabine St.
  • Denver Harbor Multi-Service Center: 6402 Market St.
  • Magnolia Multi-Service Center: 7037 Capitol St.
  • Metropolitan Multi-Service Center: 1475 W Gray St.
  • Southwest Multi-Service Center: 6400 High Star Dr.
  • Sunnyside Multi-Service Center: 4410 Reed Rd.

“We want to ensure that all Houstonians are taken care of during this cold snap,” said Brian Mason, Director of City of Houston OEM. “Our warming centers will be open, and our teams are ready to assist. We’re also asking everyone to be proactive by preparing for the weather and taking the necessary steps to protect themselves, their families, and their property.”

The City encourages all residents to be prepared for the cold by Sunday and reminds everyone to take care of the “Four P’s”:

  • People: Keep warm by layering clothing and utilizing extra blankets and warm coverings. Check on vulnerable neighbors and family members.
  • Pets: Bring pets inside or ensure they have adequate shelter, food, and water.
  • Pipes: Protect exposed pipes from freezing by covering them with insulation or towels.
  • Plants: Bring plants indoors or cover them to prevent damage from freezing temperatures.

The City of Houston encourages residents to stay informed by monitoring local weather reports and official sources on social media. Check the City of Houston OEM’s social media channels @HoustonOEM on X, Facebook, and Instagram.

For more information and winter weather preparedness tips, please visit the City of Houston Office of Emergency Management website at HoustonOEM.org/winterweather.