This is a hypothermia alert issued in accordance with the District of Columbia’s Cold Plan for 7 PM Tuesday, January 5th, 2021. The National Weather Service (NWS) reports that temperatures are expected to fall below freezing with wind chill values in the upper 20’s. These temperatures significantly increase your risk for hypothermia and frostbite. As temperatures fall, we ask that you take the following actions for yourself and your DC neighbors:

* Stay inside if you can and cover-up and limit exposed skin when you go outside.

* Check on your neighbors and learn the signs of hypothermia - young children, the elderly, and those with access and functional needs are the most vulnerable in our community.

* To request shelter transport for DC residents who are experiencing homelessness and outside, please call 311 or the shelter hotline at 202-399-7093. The District opens Hypothermia Shelters in recreation centers and other public buildings to ensure there are warm, safe places to be for anyone experiencing homelessness. Once opened, all seasonal shelters will remain open 24 hours per day, seven days per week with reduced capacity for the duration of the season to reduce the risk of Coronavirus (COVID-19) spread.

* For all animal emergencies, including animals left outside in extreme temperatures, call the Humane Rescue Alliance at 202-723-5730. For additional winter weather information and preparedness tips, visit https://ready.dc.gov/winterwx.