Additional Warming Stations Open in Central Texas

The City of Temple Tuesday announced four new warming stations opening to the public, including two that will accept pets under certain conditions.

Before getting to the new shelters opening, I should note that I called Impact Temple (306 East Adams Avenue) shortly before 3 PM Tuesday and was told there is still room there for those looking for shelter from the cold. However, they are out of cots, so visitors are asked to please bring their own bedding (blankets, sleeping bags, etc.). You're also encouraged to bring snacks and beverages.

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The following places have also opened as shelter from the cold. If you've been without power and are need of a place to warm up, please consider going to one of these locations.

The City of Temple has established a warming center information hotline that can also provide transportation to shelters for some residents. You're asked to call (254) 298-5550.

If you plan to shelter at any of these locations, please keep COVID-19 safety in mind and take along a mask and hand sanitizer if you have them.

St. Mary’s Catholic Church, 1018 S 7th St.
Pets are accepted, must be secured in a kennel or on leash.

St. Luke’s Catholic Church, 2807 Oakdale Dr.

Immanuel Baptist Church, 1401 W. Central Ave.
Opens at 2 PM February 16
Pets are accepted, must be secured in a kennel or on leash.

Salvation Army, 419 W. Ave. G

First United Methodist, 102 N. 2nd St.
Opens at 5:30pm February 16

For assistance getting to a Temple warming center, please call (254) 298.5550.

Additional Warming Stations

Belton/Temple Area

The Bell County Expo Center, 301 W Loop 121 in Belton, has been opened as a warming center. County Commissioner Bobby Whitson announced Tuesday afternoon that TxDOT crews had cleared I-35 and I-14 as well as feeder roads. However, you should still drive slowly and carefully on any and all roadways, interstates included, if you're going to be out and about.

Whitson said those seeking shelter at the Expo Center should bring their own sleeping bags, blankets, snacks, and water if they have those resources available. He said Expo officials are working on a way to make food available, but are mostly concerned with getting people to warm shelters right now.

They could also used volunteers to help out if you can safely make it.

Harker Heights

A warming center has also opened in Harker Heights at the Harker Heights Recreation Center, 307 Millers Crossing. Visitors are asked to bring their own blankets. It'd probably be a good idea to take some food and water with you as well.

Killeen

Due to Skyline Baptist Church's warming center reaching capacity, the City of Killeen on Thursday, February 18 began advising those in need of warm shelter to go to Liberty Christian Center at 4107 Westcliff Road.

The City of Killeen has partnered with Skyline Baptist Church for a warming station at 906 Trimmier Road.

Liberty Christian Center at 4107 Westcliff Road is also a warming center.

Copperas Cove

The Copperas Cove Civic Center at 1206 West Avenue B opened at 6PM and will continue operating as a warming center until further notice. The Civic Center does not have full shelter services, and they're strongly encouraging those in need to bring the following if possible:

Change of Clothing
Bedding
Toiletries
Food/Drink
Medications
Entertainment Items, such as Books, Games, etc.
Any other necessities

Additional centers have been opened in Copperas Cove as well:

Copperas Cove Public Library, 501 S. Main Street
CCISD’s Hettie Halstead Elementary – 910 N. Main Street

For transportation to a Copperas Cove warming station, reach out to the police department at (254) 547-8222, dial 0, then let them know you need a ride.

Fort Hood

Soldiers and their families living off-post are invited to the Community Events Center on base. However, they are not equipped for 24-hour shelter services, but it's an opportunity to warm up and charged devices.

If you drive to one of these locations, please take your time and drive slowly. Many roads are still covered in snow, and ice is still thick on the roadway in some areas.

The City of Temple shared these driving tips:

Keep space between you and the vehicle in front of you.
Watch out for black ice – don’t drive after snowmelt.
Watch for fallen branches and powerlines.
Don’t drive if you do not need to.

They also shared valuable tips for keeping your home warm while we wait for temperatures to climb:

Keep blinds or curtains closed to keep heat in.
Close off rooms to avoid wasting heat.
Wear layers of loose-fitting, lightweight, warm clothing
Eat and drink. Avoid caffeine.
Stuff towels or rags in cracks under doors.
Use alternate plans for refrigerating medicines or power-dependent medical devices.
Disconnect appliances to reduce energy strain.