Key Highlights
- Multiple counties in the Tampa Bay area are opening cold weather shelters ahead of plummeting temperatures.
- Citrus County and Hernando County will experience temperatures as low as 20s to 30s overnight on November 10, prompting the need for shelter.
- Shelters will operate from late evening until early morning in various locations across multiple counties.
Cold Weather Shelters Open Across Tampa Bay Area
TAMPA, Fla. – As temperatures are expected to drop significantly in the next few days, local governments and community organizations have taken proactive measures by opening temporary shelters for those in need of warmth. The move comes after a Freeze Warning has been issued for Citrus County and inland Hernando County.
Citrus County: A Cold Weather Shelter Opens Monday Night
The first cold-weather shelter is set to open on November 10, in Homosassa, Florida. This shelter will be operational from 6 p.m. until 7 a.m. the following day at the location: 5113 South Suncoast Boulevard, Citrus County, FL 34446. Community members and organizations are advised to familiarize themselves with these details as the weather conditions worsen overnight.
Hernando County: Warming Center Operates in Brooksville
In response to anticipated cold temperatures, the city of Brooksville has also decided to open a warming center. This facility will be located at the Brooksville Enrichment Center and is set to operate from 8 p.m. on Monday until 8 a.m. on Tuesday, November 10. The warming center’s address is 800 John Gary Grubbs Boulevard in Brooksville, FL 34601.
Additional Shelters Activated Across Pasco and Polk Counties
In addition to Citrus County and Hernando County, other locations are also preparing for the cold snap. Cold-weather shelters will be open across Pasco County, including at the Shady Hills Mission Chapel in Spring Hill and the First Nazarene Church of Zephyrhills. These facilities will operate from 6 p.m. on both Monday and Tuesday until 10 a.m. on each respective day.
For more information, potential guests can call 727-856-2948.
Polk County has also set up a cold shelter at the Talbot House Ministries in Lakeland, which will be open 24/7 from Monday, November 10. The community is encouraged to support these efforts by donating food and financial assistance. More information can be found on their website: www.TalbotHouse.org.
Shelter Operations in Pinellas, Hillsborough, and Manatee Counties
The same measures have been implemented across other counties. In Pinellas County, various churches will serve as temporary shelters on Monday night and Tuesday morning. For detailed information, residents can visit pinellashomeless.org/coldnightshelters.
Hillsborough County has activated its cold weather shelters for two consecutive nights to ensure the safety of those without adequate heating.
Locations such as Church of God of Prophecy Hyde Park and Hillsborough United Methodist Church are among those providing shelter.
Manatee County’s Salvation Army will be open, but individuals seeking shelter must be 18 years old or accompanied by a parent/guardian. Intake begins at 6 p.m. each night and ends when capacity is reached or at 8 p.m.. Emergency clients have specific departure times of either 6 a.m. (Women/Families) or 7 a.m. (Men).
For transportation, Manatee County Area Transit (MCAT) will provide pickup from several locations starting at 5 p.m. Potential guests should plan accordingly and seek assistance if needed by calling First Contact (211).
Preparedness Remains a Priority for Local Governments
The activation of these shelters underscores the commitment of local authorities to ensure public safety during extreme weather conditions. As temperatures are expected to drop to record lows on Tuesday, community members and organizations are encouraged to stay informed and support those in need.
Local leaders emphasize that these temporary facilities play a crucial role in providing immediate relief while emphasizing long-term solutions for housing and warmth. The collaborative efforts of government agencies, non-profits, and the community highlight the importance of preparedness during challenging weather conditions.
Residents are reminded to check updates from local authorities and shelters regularly as conditions may evolve. Additional information can be found on official websites or through local emergency management services.
