This article explains Fayetteville’s activation of its extreme weather response plan as dangerously cold temperatures move into the region. It outlines where residents can obtain warm shelter and how to access assistance through the city’s Cold Weather Hotline.
Fayetteville Activates Extreme Cold Weather Response
The City of Fayetteville has formally activated its extreme weather response to address a period of dangerously low temperatures. This action is designed to ensure that any resident who needs a safe, warm place to stay overnight can find shelter without barriers or delay.
City officials emphasize that this is not a routine weather precaution, but a targeted response to conditions that can rapidly threaten the health and safety of vulnerable community members. Those most at risk include people without stable housing, older adults, and individuals with chronic health conditions.
Warm Shelter Available at Potters House
Beginning Sunday evening, Fayetteville residents in need of overnight shelter are invited to check in at Potters House, located at 612 South College Avenue, in the former Jefferson Elementary School building. Check-in began at 5 p.m. on Sunday and will continue as severe cold persists.
This site has been designated as a centralized, easily identifiable location where community members can find warmth, basic amenities, and support. By using a familiar public building, the city and its partners can quickly scale up capacity and reach people who might otherwise remain exposed to dangerous temperatures.
How Residents Can Access Help
In extreme cold, rapid access to reliable information can save lives. To streamline communication, Fayetteville has established a dedicated hotline that connects residents with shelter details and other cold-weather resources.
The city is strongly urging anyone who may be at risk—or who knows someone at risk—to reach out early, rather than waiting until conditions worsen or a health emergency develops.
Cold Weather Hotline for Questions and Support
For questions, guidance, or help navigating available services, residents can call the Cold Weather Hotline at 479-259-2428. Trained staff can provide information on:
Early contact with the hotline is encouraged, especially for individuals with mobility challenges. This is also important for families with children or those assisting neighbors who may not have access to phones or internet information.
Protecting Vulnerable Populations in Extreme Cold
Extremely low temperatures pose serious health risks, including hypothermia and frostbite, which can develop faster than many people realize. For individuals without consistent access to heated housing, even a single night outdoors in dangerously cold conditions can be life-threatening.
Fayetteville’s response is particularly focused on vulnerable populations, including people experiencing homelessness, older adults, and individuals with underlying medical issues that can be worsened by cold stress.
A Community Commitment to Health and Safety
Officials are closely monitoring evolving conditions and have indicated they are prepared to provide additional support if the situation escalates or persists.
Residents are also encouraged to take part in this community safety effort by:
A Proactive, Science-Informed Approach to Winter Hazards
Fayetteville’s proactive cold weather response reflects a growing recognition, grounded in public health and environmental science, that extreme temperature events require coordinated, anticipatory planning. As climate patterns shift, many regions are experiencing more frequent and intense weather extremes, including cold snaps that can strain community resources.
By rapidly opening a designated warming shelter and launching a dedicated hotline, the city is operationalizing evidence-based strategies to reduce cold-related illness and prevent avoidable emergency room visits.
Staying Informed and Prepared
Residents are encouraged to remain informed through official city communications, local news, and trusted community organizations during this period of extreme cold.
Taking advantage of the shelter at Potters House and using the Cold Weather Hotline can help ensure that no one in Fayetteville has to face dangerous temperatures alone.
As conditions evolve, the city stands ready to adapt its response.
Here is the source article for this story: City of Fayetteville to activate extreme weather response due to cold