Multiple warming shelters are open as temperatures drop in Mid-Missouri
COLUMBIA Mo. (KMIZ)
As mid-Missouri is facing dangerously cold in the low teens, single digits and under, some may feel the need to bundle up and seek shelter as the cold brings risks of frostbite and hypothermia.
According to the CDC, hypothermia can occur in temperatures as mild as 40 degrees. According to the National Weather Service, frostbite can set in after 30 minutes in temperatures under 10 degrees with high wind chills.
The CDC recommends layering up and staying hydrated to prevent both hypothermia and frostbite. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, scarves and hats help prevent body heat loss and mittens are better than gloves as they allow for body heat to be shared between fingers. It's also recommended to wear a water-resistant jacket and boots.
Some symptoms of hypothermia are drowsiness, weakness, and pale and cold skin. For frostbite, there may be redness or numbness in the affected area.
To treat cold-related illnesses, the CDC recommends seeking medical attention as soon as possible, getting into a warm shelter, slowly warming up the body with layers of blankets, and placing frostbite-affected areas in warm-to-touch water.
Both Columbia and Jefferson City have options for overnight and daytime warming shelters.
Columbia
Overnight shelters
- Room at the Inn - 5:30 p.m. to 8 a.m.
- Salvation Army - 8 a.m. to 10 a.m.
- Turning Point - 7 p.m. to 7 a.m. (from Jan .17 to Jan. 21)
Warming centers
- The Activity and Recreation Center
- City hall
- Boone County public health and human services
- Daniel Boone Regional Library
Jefferson City
Overnight Shelters
- Room at the Inn - 5:30 p.m. to 7 a.m.
- Salvation Army - 8 a.m. to 10 a.m.
- Our House (Fulton) - 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., checkout 8 a.m.
Warming center
- Missouri River Regional Library