Little Rock, Arkansas – Central Arkansas residents are being urged to stay warm as temperatures are expected to plunge into the high teens and low 20s overnight Tuesday. Officials have announced the opening of warming centers across the region to provide a safe refuge from the bitter cold.
The National Weather Service reports that after a chilly weekend, a new cold front will move through the area on Monday, reinforcing the existing cold airmass. High pressure is expected to settle in Monday evening, setting the stage for another frigid morning. In response, local authorities have opened community centers and churches to offer warmth and shelter to anyone in need.
In Little Rock, the Dunbar Community Center at 1001 W. 16th Street will open its doors at 8 p.m., providing a safe space for residents to escape the subfreezing temperatures. North Little Rock residents can turn to the North Little Rock Community Center at 2700 Willow Street, which will also open at 8 p.m. Meanwhile, in Jacksonville, the New Commandment Church of God in Christ will welcome the public starting at 8:30 p.m.
Local officials emphasize that these warming centers are intended for anyone who needs shelter from the cold, especially those without access to heated homes. The centers offer a chance to avoid the dangers associated with prolonged exposure to freezing temperatures, which can lead to frostbite or hypothermia.
Community leaders are reminding residents to take precautions when traveling during the cold spell and to check on neighbors, particularly elderly or vulnerable individuals. Blankets, warm clothing, and staying indoors whenever possible are strongly recommended until temperatures rise.
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As Central Arkansas braces for another night of frigid weather, the warming centers offer a vital resource, ensuring that everyone has access to heat, safety, and comfort during the coldest part of the week. The effort reflects a coordinated response to extreme weather and highlights the importance of community support in times of need.