Several cold weather shelters are opening across Hillsborough County this Saturday night as temperatures are expected to drop to around 40 degrees Fahrenheit overnight. With the region facing cold weather conditions, officials stress the importance of shelter for those without homes or safe places to stay.
The shelters will accept individuals starting at 6 p.m., with doors closing at 8 p.m., but they may fill up before the deadline. Residents are encouraged to seek refuge with friends or family first, due to limited occupancy available at the shelters.
The following locations are designated cold weather shelters for adults only:
- Church of God of Prophecy Hyde Park: 107 S. Oregon Ave., Tampa, Fla. 33606
- Hyde Park United Methodist Church: 500 W. Platt St., Tampa, Fla. 33606
- Tampa Bay Mission of Hope: 212 S. St. Cloud Ave. Building A, Valrico, Fla. 33594
- Amazing Love Ministries: 3304 E. Columbus Dr., Tampa, FL 33605
For families with children, there are limited single-night motel vouchers available on a first-come, first-serve basis. Families must pre-register for these vouchers by calling (813) 209-1176.
Weather forecasts by the National Weather Service indicate other areas across the state, such as Charlotte County, will also be experiencing chilly temperatures. The Charlotte CARE Center—in Port Charlotte at 1476 Kenesaw St.—will provide shelter for individuals seeking warmth. Guests are advised to arrive by 8 p.m. to secure their accommodations.
The forecast from the National Weather Service reported this cold snap will bring overnight lows produced by dry, cool air moving through the region. Calm winds are expected to contribute to radiational cooling, leaving temperatures lower than usual for this time of year.
Alternatives and recommendations suggest people prepare for the chill, as highs for the following week are forecast between the 50s and low 60s, with lows nearing freezing at locations along Florida’s Nature Coast. This upcoming drop in temperature provides heightened urgency for individuals without stable housing or safe shelters.
Local organizations have rallied to offer assistance amid forecasted severe weather conditions, urging community members to donate or volunteer at shelters to help those who may find themselves struggling as the temperature drops. The collaborative effort reflects the community’s commitment to supporting its most vulnerable members during these harsh weather conditions.
The importance of being prepared for such weather cannot be overstated. Residents are encouraged to stay informed through local news outlets or hotlines for the latest updates on weather-related emergencies and available services, as community resources become scarce during such high-demand situations.
Residents are reminded to keep safety as their priority—particularly those with no warm accommodations— and to seek the refuge available at local shelters. This cold front exemplifies how communities can come together to protect those at greater risk during challenging weather scenarios.