This story has been updated as of 12/22 at 11:42 to reflect the addition of the OTR Recreation Center as a emergency warming center during the holiday weekend.

Extreme winter weather conditions are forecast for later this week and weekend. Temperatures are expected to drop below 0 degrees Fahrenheit overnight on Thursday, with lows remaining in the single digits for several days and wind chills as low as -20 degrees Fahrenheit possible. Additionally, rain, ice, and snow accumulation are expected on Thursday and Friday.

Exposure to these conditions is dangerous, even for brief periods of time. Residents and visitors are advised to stay indoors as much as possible. Vulnerable populations, especially those who live outdoors, are at great risk.

The City of Cincinnati is prepared to help residents and visitors weather the storm.

Know the signs of hypothermia and frostbite

Signs and symptoms of hypothermia include confusion, slurred speech, trouble with coordination, slowed response time, sleepiness, and shivering. Frostbite, which may accompany hypothermia, is characterized by areas of the body becoming dusky, dark, waxy, or blanched after extended exposure to severe cold. Frostbitten areas may feel numb or prickly to the frostbitten person.

These conditions require quick medical evaluation and attention. If you, someone you know, or someone you encounter develops signs or symptoms of hypothermia or frostbite, call 911.

 

Warming centers

The Cincinnati Recreation Commission (CRC) will operate all 23 of its citywide Community Centers as warming centers. Warming centers provide residents and visitors in need with a safe place to avoid the extreme cold.

Warming centers will be open beginning today during holiday business hours. The Corryville and OTR Rec Centers will function as emergency warming centers on Saturday 12/24 and Sunday 12/25 from 10 AM - 6 PM, with the Corryville Center also opening on Monday 12/26 from 10 AM - 6 PM. A CRC membership is not required to use a warming center.

Find a CRC Warming Center

 

Community outreach

To protect the most vulnerable, the Cincinnati Police Department (CPD) is working with local agencies to reach residents who normally live outdoors and encourage them to use available resources such as local overnight shelters.

To alert CPD of someone who may need support services, contact the CPD Non-Emergency line at 513-765-1212. Cincinnati Police will follow up on tips and offer to transport persons in need to area shelters.

 

311Cincy

311Cincy is the City of Cincinnati's overall non-emergency customer service system. This includes the 311 call center, online service request system, mobile app, and public alerting systems.

• Dial 311 (or 513-765-1212 from outside the city) or go to 311Cincy.com
• Use the 311Cincy mobile app

During extreme winter weather, you might use 311Cincy to:

• Be linked to resources if your heat goes out
• Connect with city services about piled-up snow
• Ask questions about trash collection in snowy conditions

 

Additional resources

Persons without housing are encouraged to seek immediate shelter. Attached is a list of area shelters and support services. Those in need may also call the Central Access Point (CAP) hotline at 513-381-SAFE (7233) or text CAP at 513-970-1515 for information about local services and shelters.

Find Additional Resources