Columbus opens expanded warming centers and overnight shelter options as extreme cold hits central Ohio

Warming sites expand as cold weather raises health risks for residents without reliable heat

Columbus activated a broader network of warming options for residents as a surge of frigid weather increased the risk of cold-related illness and exposure for people without stable housing, reliable home heating, or safe indoor places to stay.

City-run community centers are operating with extended hours during the cold spell. Five regional recreation facilities are scheduled to serve as warming centers from Wednesday, Jan. 28 through Sunday, Feb. 1, open from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. The locations are Barnett Community Center (1184 Barnett Road), Dodge Community Center (667 Sullivant Ave.), Linden Community Center (1350 Briarwood Ave.), Marion Franklin Community Center (2801 Lockbourne Road), and Thompson Community Center (1189 Dennison Ave.). The city has noted that specific warming-center sites may change if conditions such as power outages affect operations.

Beyond daytime warming: 24/7 and overnight locations listed for the 2025–26 winter season

In addition to daytime warming at public facilities, the city’s winter-season list of warming locations includes sites with 24/7 or overnight hours intended to reduce exposure risk during the coldest periods—often late night and early morning.

• Third Shift Warming/Cooling Center, 1015 E. Main St. (open 24/7)
• Community Development for All People, 946 Parsons Ave. (open 24/7)
• Our Brothers Keepers, 2906 E. 5th Ave. (open 24/7; for ages 18–24)
• A Step in the Right Direction, 61 S. Powell Ave. (overnight, 9 p.m. to 7 a.m.)
• Star House, 1220 Corrugated Way (late-night and daytime hours; for ages 14–24)

For residents who cannot use an online map or need assistance identifying a nearby location and operating hours, the city’s customer service line is available through 311 (614-645-3111). Emergencies should be routed to 911.

What the city urges residents to watch for during extreme cold

Cold exposure can become a medical emergency, particularly for older adults, infants, people with chronic illness, and individuals sleeping outdoors. City public-health guidance emphasizes limiting time outside, dressing in layers, keeping skin protected from wind, and checking on neighbors, friends, and relatives who may be isolated or lack adequate heat.

Warning signs associated with dangerous cold exposure can include confusion, uncontrolled shivering, drowsiness, stumbling, and abnormally low body temperature.

Officials also advise keeping basic emergency items in vehicles—such as warm blankets, gloves, a flashlight, and jumper cables—in case travel is disrupted by winter conditions.