Stay Warm: Columbus Warming Centers Open During Snow and Cold Snap
The Columbus Recreation and Parks Department will open several warming centers on December 14 and 15 as central Ohio braces for frigid temperatures following a snowstorm.
The National Weather Service in Wilmington has issued a winter weather advisory effective from 1 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 13, until 7 a.m. Sunday, Dec. 14, covering Franklin, Licking, and Madison counties.
Snowfall is expected to reach 1–3 inches on Dec. 13, with an additional 2–4 inches overnight. Afterward, temperatures will drop into single digits with negative wind chills, making it one of the coldest spells of the season.
Columbus Warming Centers Locations and Hours:
The warming centers will be open from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. at the following locations:
- 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
- Thompson Community Center: 1189 Dennison Ave
Why the Early Cold Snap?
The extreme cold is caused by a polar vortex moving across Ohio, Indiana, and Kentucky. Meteorologist Ryan Maue described it as a “textbook polar vortex” bringing harsh Canadian cold to the central and eastern U.S. Even after the winter advisory ends on Dec. 14, temperatures will remain low, with highs around 13°F and lows near 2°F.
Winter Safety Tips from Columbus Recreation and Parks:
- Stay indoors whenever possible. If outside, wear multiple layers, a hat, and gloves.
- Stay dry and protect yourself from the wind.
- Cover your mouth to avoid lung exposure to extreme cold.
- Watch for frostbite and hypothermia: signs include confusion, uncontrollable shivering, slurred speech, and body temperature below 95°F. Seek immediate medical help if necessary.
- Keep emergency supplies in your vehicle.
- Check on elderly neighbors and family members.
- Bring pets indoors to keep them safe.
For residents in central Ohio, knowing the warming center locations and preparing for the cold is critical to staying safe during this extreme weather event.
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