Weather forecasts indicate dangerously low temperatures will continue and increase through Wednesday night. A Wind Chill Advisory will begin at 12:00 am tonight, continuing until Wednesday at 12:00 pm noon. Forecasts indicate frigid temperatures through Wednesday evening with wind chills of -20 to -30 below zero.
With these hazardous weather conditions, the Rock County Sheriff’s Office is reminding citizens to be aware of the dangers of cold-related injuries and illnesses including hypothermia and frostbite. Avoid extended periods of outdoor activity during these frigid conditions, as frostbite can set in very quickly.
Citizens in need of overnight emergency sheltering are encouraged to register immediately with the following overnight shelter options to determine availability and placement. These locations serve the entire Rock County area without residency restrictions.
Shelter Facilities:
The following shelters have been established for those seeking shelter during the bitter temperatures and poor weather conditions:
BELOIT – The Sparrows Nest
Overnight Facility
1816 Harrison Ave., Beloit WI
Shelter Hours:
After 5:00 pm only
608-362-8215
________________________________________
JANESVILLE – House of Mercy
Overnight Facility – Women, children and families only
320 Lincoln St., Janesville WI
Shelter Hours:
Overnight – Must register through House of Mercy: 608-754-0045
Must register by 6:00 pm
JANESVILLE – GIFTS Men’s Shelter**
Overnight Facility – Men Only
Shelter Hours:
Overnight – Must register through GIFTS: 608-371-3735
GIFTS Hotline – 608-728-0140
**WAITING LIST ACTIVE – CONSIDERATIONS AND ALTERNATIVES DISCUSSED AT REGISTRATION ON WAITING LIST. GIFTS WILL WORK WITH CLIENTS TO DETERMINE NEEDS AND APPROPRIATE SHELTER OPTIONS AVAILABLE.
________________________________________
Daytime Only Warming Sites Include:
JANESVILLE – GIFTS Resource Center
Daytime Warming Center
419 E. Court Street, Janesville WI
Shelter Hours:
8:00 am to 5:00 pm
JANESVILLE – Hedberg Public Library
Daytime Warming Shelter
316 South Main Street, Janesville WI
Shelter Hours:
Monday – Thursday 9:00 am to 9:00 pm
Friday – Saturday 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
Sunday 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm
________________________________________
Citizens in need of assistance can also contact the American Red Cross - Emergency Services Hotline at (877) 618-6628.
For organizations that would like to participate as future shelters and warming centers or to provide emergency assistance to citizens during extreme temperatures and local emergencies, you are encouraged to notify the Rock County Sheriff’s Office – Emergency Management Bureau by contacting 608-758-8440.
