Central Florida Braces for Cold Snap as Shelters Open

ORLANDO, Fla. — A strong cold front sweeping through Central Florida on Monday afternoon is expected to bring a significant drop in temperatures, prompting local governments and community organizations to open cold-weather shelters across the region. The front will plunge overnight temperatures, with wind chills expected to reach as low as 20 degrees, raising concerns about hypothermia and other cold-related risks.

Matthew’s Hope, a nonprofit organization, will open its Orange County homeless shelter in Winter Garden starting Tuesday morning at 8 a.m. through Friday. The shelter will provide breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with showers available and limited personal items allowed. Residents with questions can call 407-905-9500 (ext. #1).

In Volusia County, multiple organizations are activating cold-weather shelters from Monday, Jan. 6, through Wednesday, Jan. 8. The Bridge at The Neighborhood Center in DeLand will open its doors at 6:30 p.m., offering overnight stays until 8 a.m. the following morning. Halifax Urban Ministries (HUM) is coordinating shelter services with local churches, though it does not operate its own facility. Residents in need of shelter or transportation are encouraged to contact HUM at 386-317-5886.

Lake County will open a cold-weather shelter on nights when temperatures drop significantly. Residents requiring transportation can call Lake County Connection at 352-742-2612. LifePointe Church in Eustis and the Salvation Army in Leesburg will also provide shelter services, with specific hours and locations available for those in need.

Flagler County has confirmed the opening of cold-weather shelters at the Rock Transformation Center in Bunnell. The shelters will operate for four nights, starting Monday, with bus transportation provided along two routes. Residents can text COLD to 888-777 for updates on shelter locations and shuttle schedules.

In Brevard County, The Daily Bread will offer a nighttime cold-weather shelter at the Joseph N. Davis Community Center in Melbourne. The shelter will be open for four nights, starting Monday. For more information, residents can contact The Daily Bread at 321-723-1060.

The Salvation Army in Ocala will also open its doors as a shelter Monday night, with check-in at 6 p.m. at 320 NW 1st Ave. Channel 9 is working to gather more information and will provide updates on Eyewitness News.

Meanwhile, Winter Storm Blair, which has impacted the Midwest and Mid-Atlantic states, is ushering in a prolonged cold spell in the Tallahassee area. The National Weather Service in Tallahassee has issued cold weather advisories, with wind chills expected to drop into the low to mid-20s. The Big Bend Continuum of Care has announced the opening of cold-weather shelters at the Kearney Center, HOPE Community, and Capital City Youth Services.

Local officials are urging residents to take precautions, including wearing appropriate clothing, keeping pets indoors, and checking on vulnerable neighbors. The city of Tallahassee has also advised residents to protect pipes by running a thin stream of water through faucets to prevent freezing.

With below-normal temperatures expected to persist through mid-January, community organizations and local governments are working to ensure the safety of those most at risk during this cold snap.