COLUMBUS, Ind. – Bartholomew County Emergency Management and the City of Columbus have announced that “Warming Centers” are open Tuesday, February 18 through Thursday, February 20, to provide relief from the cold to residents who need it.
The National Weather Service says an arctic air mass will remain in the region throughout the week. Daily highs will be in the teens with nightly lows in the single digits. Expect wind chills values to drop into the zero to -10 degree range in the evening.
Donner Center, at 739 22nd St. in Columbus, is available for warming from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily.
The Bartholomew County Public Library has both locations open as “Warming Centers” those days. The downtown main branch hours are 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. The Hope branch, at 635 Harrison St., opens each day at 10 a.m. and closes at 7 p.m. on Tuesday, 5 p.m. on Wednesday, and 6 p.m. on Thursday.
Brighter Days Housing shelter, 421 S. Mapleton St. in Columbus, can be used for warming after 5 p.m.
At Donner Center, crates are available for animals courtesy of Columbus Animal Care Services. Pets will not be allowed to roam free.
Officials ask the public to respect the rules of the “Warming Center” facilities and remind participants that food, showers, and areas for sleep are not available at the libraries or Donner Center.
Exposure to sub-zero temperatures can be very dangerous, leading to serious health risks. It’s essential to understand these dangers and take preventive measures.
Health Risks include:
- Frostbite: Prolonged exposure can cause skin and underlying tissues to freeze, leading to potential amputation if untreated
- Hypothermia: A drop in body temperature below 95°F (35°C) can cause confusion, slurred speech, and possible unconsciousness or death
- Respiratory Issues: Breathing in extremely cold air can irritate the lungs, leading to respiratory problems or exacerbating existing conditions like asthma
