With plunging temperatures gripping the city, additional Detroit warming centers are opened to provide emergency respite centers and public facilities to protect residents from the cold.

Emergency Warming Centers Activated in Detroit

DETROIT—In response to dangerously cold weather, the City of Detroit has announced the activation of additional warming centers and respite locations to provide shelter and relief. Starting Sunday, Jan. 19 at 2 p.m., two overnight emergency respite centers will open their doors to the public and remain accessible until Wednesday, Jan. 22 at 2 p.m.

The city encourages residents in need of warmth to visit the following Detroit warming centers, no referral required:

Detroit Rescue Mission Ministries, located at 13130 Woodward Avenue.
Pope Francis Center, located at 2915 West Hancock.

Additionally, residents can find refuge during regular hours at Detroit recreation centers and Detroit Public Library branches, except on Monday, Jan. 20, when these facilities will be closed in observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Detroit, Michigan, has around a dozen community recreation centers and 23 branches of the Detroit Public Library.

For assistance, residents can call the Cold Weather Line through the Detroit Housing Resource HelpLine at 866-313-2520.

Frigid Temperatures Prompt Urgent Action

Detroit warming centers — Artist Rendition

As Detroit braces for freezing conditions, city officials urge vulnerable individuals, particularly those without reliable heat sources, to use these services. “Providing safe spaces for residents during severe weather is a top priority,” said a city representative.

The warming centers are part of a coordinated effort with Detroit’s nonprofit partners to ensure community members can access essential support during the extreme cold. Stay updated on the city’s website for any changes regarding the operation of Detroit warming centers as conditions evolve.

Summary of Southeast Michigan Weather Forecast (January 19, 2025):

Frigid Temperatures: Arctic air is spreading across the Great Lakes, with temperatures remaining in the teens today and dropping to single digits tonight. The coldest period of the winter is expected Monday through Wednesday, with daytime highs struggling to rise above zero and nighttime lows dipping below zero.
Hazardous Wind Chills: Wind chill values are forecast to range between -15°F and -25°F, especially late at night and early in the morning, posing a significant risk of frostbite and hypothermia.
Lake Effect Snow: Lake effect snow is expected to increase in coverage Monday into Tuesday, particularly in areas downwind of Lake Michigan. Some light snow accumulation is possible in southeastern Michigan during this time.
Gradual Warming Trend: Temperatures will begin a modest warming trend Thursday, with highs returning to the 20s by the weekend.

Residents are advised to prepare for extreme cold and monitor updates for potential wind chill advisories or travel disruptions due to snow and freezing temperatures.

Holiday Hours Impact Public Services

With Martin Luther King Jr. Day falling on Monday, Jan. 20, all Detroit Health Department locations and services will be closed. Normal operations will resume on Tuesday, Jan. 21.

Residents are encouraged to consult a list of open Detroit recreation centers and library branches to find public spaces available during regular hours. The city emphasizes the importance of planning, as closures could affect those seeking respite from the cold on the holiday.

Additional Resources for Residents

In addition to respite centers, community organizations are working to raise awareness about cold weather safety. Officials recommend layering clothing, keeping emergency supplies on hand, and checking on neighbors, particularly older adults or those with limited mobility.

For a comprehensive list of locations and resources, residents can contact the Cold Weather Line at 866-313-2520 or visit the city’s website.

For more information, residents can contact the city to learn about additional resources and the nearest Detroit warming centers.

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