DOTHAN, Ala. (WDNews) — Warming stations will open this week in response to dangerously cold temperatures expected across the Wiregrass, according to the Dothan-Houston County Emergency Management Agency.
The National Weather Service is forecasting wind chills to drop below freezing, with temperatures expected to fall into the mid-20s for several hours Friday and again Monday morning.
In response, warming stations will be open from 7 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 15, through 9 a.m. Friday, Jan. 16.
Two locations will be available. First Baptist Church’s Family Life Center, located at 300 West Main Street in DOTHAN, will operate as a warming station with support from the Southeast Alabama Coalition for the Homeless. The Cottonwood Community Church, located at 1331 Metcalf Street in COTTONWOOD, will also serve as a warming station.
Meals and cots will be provided at both locations. For safety reasons, doors will lock nightly at 9 p.m.
Officials say volunteers are needed to help operate the First Baptist Church location. Anyone who knows someone in need of shelter or who would like to volunteer is asked to contact the Dothan-Houston County Emergency Management Agency at 334-794-9720. Additional community resources are available by dialing 2-1-1.
Emergency officials urge residents to check on vulnerable neighbors and take precautions during the cold weather.
