WASHINGTON, DC (Sunday, November 1, 2020) – As the temperatures in the DMV are expected to dip into the 30s tonight, DC is activating a plan to keep those living on the streets warm. The city’s Hypothermia Alert was activated today at 5:00 p.m. A statement by the mayor says the District remains committed to ensuring access to shelter during hypothermia season and doing so in a way that is safe during the public health emergency.
Based on the forecast from the National Weather Service (NWS), the expected low temperature tonight will be 36 degrees with a wind chill factor in the upper 20s. Hypothermia Alerts are activated when the NWS forecasted temperature, including wind chill, is or will be 32 degrees or below; or, when the temperature is forecasted to be 40 degrees or below, and the forecasted chance of precipitation is 50% or greater.
Access to Shelter: The District opens Hypothermia Shelters in recreation centers and other public buildings to ensure there are warm, safe places to be for anyone experiencing homelessness. Once opened, all seasonal shelters will remain open 24 hours per day, seven days per week, with reduced capacity for the duration of the season to reduce the risk of coronavirus spread. Tonight’s Hypothermia Shelters will be activated at the following locations:
Co-Ed
· Banneker: 2500 Georgia Avenue, NW at 5:00 p.m.
Men
· Salvation Army: 3335 Sherman Avenue, NW at 7:00 p.m.
Increased Outreach: DHS will amplify outreach efforts during the night to raise awareness about the availability of Hypothermia Shelters. Families seeking emergency shelter may also call the Shelter Hotline at 202-399-7093, or 311, at any time.
Transportation: There will not be scheduled transportation routes this year. On-demand transportation is available by calling the Shelter Hotline (202-399-7093 or 311) and clients newly seeking shelter will be prioritized.
Cold-Weather Pet Guidance: For all animal emergencies, including animals left outside in extreme temperatures, call the Humane Rescue Alliance at 202-576-6664.