As the region braces for extreme cold temperatures over the next several days, Riley County officials say several temperature-controlled facilities are available in the community for those who need relief from the elements.
The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Storm Watch, effective Thursday afternoon through Friday morning. Forecasters say 1 to 4 inches of additional snow accumulation is possible. A Wind Chill Watch is also in effect Friday evening through Tuesday morning for wind gusts up to 40 mph that could create dangerously cold wind chills as low as 30 below zero.
Daytime shelters in Manhattan include Be Able Community Center, the Flint Hills Discovery Center, Manhattan City Hall, Manhattan Public Library, the Manhattan Senior Center, the Anthony and Eisenhower Recreation Centers and Douglass Activity Center, Manhattan Town Center and the Riley County Historical Museum. The Ogden Community Center is also available for daytime shelter.
Those needing overnight shelter can visit the Manhattan Emergency Shelter, though space may be limited by and there are eligibility requirements.
The Center of Hope Ministry at Vineyard Community Church provides overnight shelter from 7 p.m. to 7 a.m. during the winter if temperatures are below 36 degrees.
County officials say in the event of a large-scale emergency, such as a widespread power or natural gas outage, Riley County Emergency Management will coordinate with agencies to open a group shelter, if needed.
1-10-2024 update 2 LOCATIONS FOR HEAT-COLD_202401101358516749