Extreme Cold Grips Region: Warming Shelters Open for Relief
As the region braces for an intense cold spell with potentially life-threatening temperatures, local authorities have activated emergency protocols to ensure public safety. Residents are urged to take advantage of available warming centers and shelters during this period of extreme weather.
The National Weather Service has issued an extreme cold warning in effect from 4 a.m. Saturday to 1 p.m. Sunday, as temperatures are predicted to plummet to between 25 and 30 degrees below zero when factoring in the wind chill.
In response, Wilkes-Barre and Scranton have declared Code Blue alerts throughout the weekend, resulting in the opening of emergency overnight shelters to provide a safe refuge for those in need.
Wilkes-Barre has arranged for the Calvary Bible Church to serve as a Code Blue shelter, welcoming individuals from 7 p.m. to 7 a.m. on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday nights.
Additionally, the GAR Middle School Gym in Wilkes-Barre will function as a daytime warming center on Saturday and Sunday, operating from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., according to Mayor George Brown’s office.
Scranton has extended its Code Blue alert through Wednesday, February 11, with the Weston Field House available each night at 7:30 p.m. until morning for emergency shelter.
Furthermore, St. Anthony’s Haven in Scranton provides nighttime shelter from 7 p.m. to 8 a.m., while the Community Intervention Center on North 6th Ave. offers a warming center from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
