Duval Times

The National Weather Service has issued a Freeze Warning for Sunday night as an Arctic front is expected to bring wind chill temperatures in the low 20s by Monday morning. This cold weather, with "feels like" temperatures in the 20s, is anticipated to continue through Thursday, with a possibility of freezing rain on Tuesday and Wednesday.

The City of Jacksonville Emergency Preparedness Division is monitoring weather conditions closely. They are prepared to respond to any extreme weather that affects Duval County.

A Warming Center will open at 9 p.m. tonight at the Legends Center, located at 5130 Soutel Drive. More information on the full schedule for Warming Centers and shelter partners is available.

Icy roads may occur on Sunday evening and Monday morning, as well as on Tuesday and Wednesday where heavy rainfall has happened. Citizens are advised to monitor the weather, drive carefully, and be aware of potential roadway hazards.

With the arrival of dangerously cold temperatures, there is an increased risk of home fires due to heating equipment use. Caution should be exercised with space heaters, fireplaces, and appliances.

Residents are encouraged to follow safety tips: keep space heaters away from flammable materials; have chimneys inspected annually; avoid using ovens or other appliances not designed for heating; ensure smoke alarms are functional; create a fire escape plan; and install carbon monoxide detectors.

The Emergency Preparedness Division has activated its Warming Center Contingency Plan. The City of Jacksonville Warming Center will open when temperatures reach 27 degrees or colder:

- Sunday, January 19, 2025: 9 p.m. – Monday, January 20, 2025: 9 a.m.

- Location: The Legends Center

- Monday, January 20, 2025: 11 a.m.-6 p.m.

- Location: Jacksonville Public Main Library

- Monday, January 20, 2025: 9 p.m. – Tuesday, January 21, 2025: 9 a.m.

- Location: The Legends Center

Warming Centers will remain operational throughout next week if necessary. All COJ Libraries and COJ Community Centers will reopen starting Tuesday during regular business hours to serve as Warming Centers across Duval County.

JTA buses will offer free transport to individuals heading to Warming Centers which will be staffed and provide water onsite. Residents should bring their own bedding and personal items.

Non-profit partners at area shelters are also offering cold-weather shelter services for the homeless population:

- City Rescue Mission

- Mission House

- Sulzbacher Center

- Trinity Rescue Mission

Due to expected extreme cold on Monday and after consultation with public safety agencies in Jacksonville, the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Memorial Foundation has decided to reschedule the parade out of caution for public safety.

For more information on fire prevention tips and cold weather safety measures or details about Warming Centers visit JaxReady.com/StayWarmJax.