MECKLENBURG CO., N.C. — Agencies across Mecklenburg County are activating emergency shelters in response to a winter storm hitting the Carolinas.
The American Red Cross, Charlotte-Mecklenburg Emergency Management Office, and the Town of Matthews announced four locations in the county that those without power or shelter can visit to get warm.
Starting at 4 p.m., officials say the following locations will serve as emergency shelters:
- Crews Recreation Center, 1201 Crews Rd, Matthews, N.C. 28105.
- Hopewell High School, 11530 Beatties Ford Rd, Huntersville, N.C. 28078.
- Mallard Creek High School, 3825 Johnston Oehler Rd, Charlotte, N.C. 28269.
- Central Piedmont, Worrell Building, 1228 Elizabeth Ave, Charlotte, N.C. 28204.
Emergency Management officials say resources are limited at these shelters due to severe staffing shortages across the American Red Cross along with other local agencies.
All shelters will have heat and power and provide basic meals to residents, according to a news release.
Officials recommend anyone planning to come to any of the above shelters to bring the following items, if possible:
- Clothing and toiletries for a couple of days.
- Extra sleeping bags and/or blankets.
- Sweatshirts, jackets, hat, and gloves.
- Snacks.
- Medications.
- Phone and charger.
- Books, cards, or other small forms of entertainment.
Emergency officials say pets are allowed at all of these shelters and to not leave your pet behind.
Mecklenburg County Public Health nurses will also be on-site at the shelter locations and will conduct screening upon entry.
Officials say precautions are already in place to quarantine anyone with COVID-19 who arrives at a shelter.
All shelter residents will be required to wear masks.
Officials say shelter operations at each open facility will be evaluated throughout Sunday evening and first thing on Monday, January 17th, and a determination will be made whether or not to keep the shelters open after that.
