This post explains Cincinnati’s emergency response to an incoming cold snap and the opening of an extreme winter weather daytime shelter at the St. Anthony Center in Over-the-Rhine.
It summarizes services being offered, the expected hazardous weather (including wind chill and snow risks), and practical guidance for people who may need shelter or who are helping others during this episode of extreme cold.
Shelter activation and its purpose
The city has opened a daytime warming shelter in direct response to forecasted dangerous temperatures around Martin Luther King Jr. Day and the days that follow.
This activation is intended to reduce exposure-related health risks for unhoused and vulnerable residents during a hazardous stretch of winter weather.
Location, hours and partners
The daytime shelter will be located at the St. Anthony Center in Over-the-Rhine and will operate on Monday, Jan. 19, from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m.
The effort is run in partnership with St. Francis Seraph Ministries, with free bus transportation available to and from the overnight winter shelter so that access is not limited by mobility or transit barriers.
What the shelter provides
Shelter visitors will find a warm, staffed location offering essential services to reduce immediate risk from the cold.
These resources are designed to meet basic needs and to serve as a safe place while dangerously low temperatures persist.
Key services and practical support
The shelter will offer:
- Warm indoor space to get out of the elements
- Food for visitors during operating hours
- Blankets to help retain body heat
- Free bus transportation to and from the overnight shelter
Weather summary and hazards
Forecasts indicate a significant cold snap with daytime “feels like” temperatures near or below zero on Monday.
Officials warn of subzero wind chills and an uncomfortable, prolonged period of cold before a midweek warm-up.
Specific weather impacts to watch
Expect the following conditions to affect safety and mobility:
- Wind chills around -10°F by Tuesday morning in some areas.
- Daytime highs near 10°F — still dangerously cold for prolonged outdoor exposure.
- Spotty snow showers producing localized 1–2 inches, with isolated amounts up to 3 inches in southern and eastern parts of the region.
- Pavement temperatures near freezing that increase the risk of slick spots on untreated bridges and overpasses.
Safety guidance from experience
Limit time outdoors, dress in layers, cover the head and extremities, and seek shelter early.
If you are helping others, check transportation options and communicate shelter locations clearly.
What to do if you or someone else is exposed
Look for early signs of hypothermia, such as shivering, confusion, or slurred speech. Watch for frostbite symptoms like numbness or pale, hard skin.
Move the person to a warm place and remove wet clothing. Seek medical attention when in doubt.
Use the daytime shelter as a safe option to restore warmth. Get further assistance if needed.
Spread the word: During hazardous winter weather, quick, coordinated community action saves lives.
Share this information with neighbors, outreach teams, and anyone who may be at risk.
Here is the source article for this story: Cincinnati to activate extreme winter weather shelter as temperatures plummet