Little Rock, Arkansas – The City of Little Rock is preparing to open its temporary overnight emergency shelter this Saturday, January 17, as frigid temperatures are expected to hit the area. Officials say the shelter will provide a warm and safe place for anyone in need, helping residents cope with the dangerously cold weather forecasted for the weekend.
The shelter will open at 8 p.m. at the Dunbar Community Center, located at 1001 W. 16th St. City authorities are closely monitoring weather conditions and have indicated that they may keep the shelter open for additional nights if below-normal temperatures persist. According to the National Weather Service, the low temperature Saturday night is expected to reach 18 degrees, with a wind chill making it feel closer to 12 degrees.
The temporary facility is available to all residents, and no identification will be required to enter. In a bid to make the shelter as accessible as possible, pets are allowed, with kennels provided by Little Rock Animal Village to ensure the safety and comfort of animals.
City officials emphasized the importance of community members taking advantage of the shelter during extreme weather conditions. “Our goal is to provide a safe and warm space for anyone who needs it,” a spokesperson said. “No one should have to face these temperatures without protection, and the shelter is here to help.”
The initiative is part of a broader effort by the City of Little Rock to ensure public safety during periods of extreme cold. By mobilizing temporary shelters and coordinating with local organizations, the city aims to prevent cold-related injuries and ensure residents have access to essential resources during harsh weather events.
Residents are encouraged to spread the word and assist neighbors who may need a safe place to stay. With temperatures dropping well below freezing and wind chills creating dangerous conditions, the shelter at Dunbar Community Center provides a critical lifeline for the community this weekend.
City officials continue to advise residents to stay informed on weather updates and to seek shelter if they are vulnerable to exposure. The temporary shelter system demonstrates Little Rock’s commitment to protecting its residents and ensuring that no one is left out in the cold.
