Sarasota Cold Weather Shelter Opens Tonight

Sarasota's cold weather shelter at the Salvation Army Lodge- Center of Hope, 1400 10th St., will open tonight at 6 p.m. 

The National Weather Service in Tampa Bay has issued a freeze watch that includes Sarasota, Manatee and Charlotte counties for Sunday evening through Monday morning.

Sarasota County Emergency Management officials are reminding residents to be prepared and use caution both indoors and outside. Pets should not be left outside during the cold weather.

The lower than normal temperatures combined with strong winds could produce dangerous wind chills.

People who need to be outside overnight or during the early morning hours are encouraged to dress in several warm layers and limit skin exposure to the wind.

“Temperatures are projected to drop rapidly below freezing Sunday evening, particularly in inland areas. It is important that the community prepare for colder than usual conditions by taking precautions to protect their homes, families and pets,” said Sarasota County Emergency Management Chief Ed McCrane.

The Salvation Army is in need of donated coats, sweaters or blankets.

For more information contact the Sarasota County Call Center at 861.5000 or visit the All Hazards web site at www.scgov.net.