With severe cold temperatures in Multnomah County this week, residents in need of shelter should call 211 to find information about available shelter space nearby. The forecast calls for temperatures below 32 degrees starting Tuesday night, December 13 and possibly continuing below freezing for several days. At these low temperatures there is increased risk of exposure-related injuries for unsheltered homeless people who do not have sufficient gear, such as coats, hats, gloves, footwear, and insulated tents. Warming centers are open in Portland and Gresham. Call 211 at any hour of the day for the latest information about open shelters. You can also visit 211's website at www.211info.org for updated information and sign up for emails or texts about updated warming center locations.
If you see a person in the open that appears to be at risk from cold temperatures, please call 911 and request a welfare check.