PORTLAND, Ore. — With freezing temperatures expected Sunday night, Multnomah County opened a severe weather shelter. The forecast calls for temperatures at or below freezing, in addition to sustained wind and windhills of 25 degrees or below.
Those in need of emergency shelter should call 211 for information or to arrange transportation. Shelter will be available from 8:30 p.m. Sunday until 7 a.m. Monday.
"No one will be turned away who needs help," said Multnomah County Communications Coordinator Denis Therault, adding that the severe weather centers will accommodate individuals, couples, families pets and belongings.
No identification or documentation is required.
Therault said donations of cold-weather gear and equipment are a priority right now. To find out what is needed and where to donate, please visit this website.
Here are some items that are needed:
- Thick socks
- Waterproof/resistant gloves or mittens (preferably dark colors/black)
- Waterproof/resistant winter coats (men’s and women’s sizes)
- Sleeping bags and warm blankets
- Waterproof/resistant hats (preferably dark colors/black)
- Knit hats (preferably dark colors/black)
- Tarps (preferably brown, dark colors)
- Hand warmers
- Rain ponchos