Athens, OH – As dangerously cold winter temperatures grip southeastern Ohio, Athens County officials are opening an Emergency Warming Center tonight to provide overnight shelter for individuals without adequate housing.
According to The Gathering Place, the Athens County Emergency Warming Center will be open tonight, Wednesday, January 28, at 18 North College Street in Athens. Individuals who are sleeping outdoors, in vehicles, or in unsafe shelter conditions are encouraged to arrive between 7:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. to secure a warm place to sleep.
The warming center is intended as a temporary overnight refuge during extreme cold conditions, offering protection from freezing temperatures that can quickly become life-threatening. Officials emphasize that transportation is not available, and guests must make their own arrangements to reach the location within the designated intake window.
Health officials are also urging residents to remain vigilant for signs of hypothermia or frostbite, which can include shivering, confusion, numbness, slurred speech, or loss of coordination. Anyone experiencing symptoms—or who believes they may need medical attention—should call 911 immediately or go to the nearest emergency department.
Nearby emergency medical facilities include O’Bleness Hospital, located at 55 Hospital Drive, and Marietta Memorial Health System, located at 206 Columbus Road.
Local advocates say warming centers play a critical role during winter cold snaps, especially for individuals experiencing homelessness or housing instability. Residents are encouraged to share this information with anyone who may need shelter tonight.
Community members who live nearby are also urged to check on vulnerable neighbors and loved ones as temperatures remain low.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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