Warming shelters open amid dangerous winter temps
WISCONSIN (CBS 58) -- Warming shelters are opening around southeastern Wisconsin as severe winter weather caused thousands to lose power over the weekend. And as subzero temperatures show no sign of warming up, leaders with the city of Milwaukee say they're doing everything they can to prevent any more weather-related deaths.
Hales Corners
According to the Hales Corners Police Department, they are opening their doors at the Village Hall/ Police Department. They are offering a temporary warm place to stay until the power is restored. A spokesperson told CBS 58 that they can hold about 400 people.
Mequon
Mequon residents without electricity resulting from the storm can warm up or charge devices at City Hall on Jan. 13 and 14. As the temperatures drop, City Hall will continue to remain open at all hours as a warming facility until electricity has been restored. They ask that you enter through the doors facing Cedarburg Road.
Milwaukee
Displaced individuals in need of warming centers can also call 211 for locations.
Click here to see 211's nearest warming shelters. City officials say the shelters will have expended hours in the coming days.
Waukesha County
Waukesha County executive Paul Farrow has extended a State of Emergency declaration due to the severe winter weather on Saturday, Jan. 13. The declaration runs in effect through Monday, Jan. 15, at 11:59 p.m.
In coordination with the Red Cross and the Salvation Army, the County is opening the Waukesha County Expo Center located at 1000 Northview Road, Waukesha, WI, 53188, as a site for those to seek shelter while crews work to restore power to their homes.
The shelter will be open at 4 p.m. Saturday.
According to a Waukesha County release, the following shelter services will be available: Cots, blankets, food and drink, mental health counseling services, and language translation.
They encourage everyone to stay with friends and family if possible.
They ask that people do not bring your own food, unless you have dietary restrictions, any items that are not necessities, alcohol or firearms. There is limited storage space, and the shelter will not be able to accept pets. Click here for more information.