Denton, Texas — As a hard freeze grips the city of Denton, residents are facing a challenging week ahead. The National Weather Service has issued a Wind Chill Advisory in effect until January 16, alongside a Winter Weather Advisory from January 14 to January 15. Dentonites can expect temperatures to plummet, with today’s high hovering around a mere 20°F, accompanied by freezing drizzle and sleet. The situation is expected to persist, with nightly lows dropping to around 12°F and only a slight temperature rise to 23°F on Martin Luther King Day. The cold snap will continue with temperatures remaining below freezing until midweek, when a gradual warming trend will bring some relief.
In response to these extreme conditions, the City of Denton has activated its Inclement Weather Policy. Designated city facilities with public access to restrooms, water fountains, and sitting areas are now operating as warming centers. This policy comes into effect when temperatures fall below 32 degrees or rise above 100 degrees, or in cases of severe weather emergencies.
The warming stations available for Dentonites during this freeze include:
- Denton Community Shelter Operated by Our Daily Bread at 909 N. Loop 288, open 8 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. daily.
- Salvation Army Denton at 1508 E. McKinney St., operating from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily.
- Civic Center, Senior Center, Denia Rec Center, MLK Jr. Rec Center, and North Lakes Rec Center, with varying opening hours.
- Emily Fowler Library, North Branch Library, and South Branch Library, each offering refuge during their business hours.
- Central Fire Station and several other fire stations across the city, providing basic amenities.
Note that some facilities may have altered hours due to the Martin Luther King, Jr. Day holiday.
For individuals without transportation, the Police Department’s Homeless Outreach team (H.O.T.) can assist with transport to shelters. They can be reached at homelessoutreach@cityofdenton.com or through the non-emergency number (940) 349-8181. Additionally, Giving Grace Street Outreach is available for connecting to temporary shelter and day services at (940) 382-0609.
During this time of extreme cold, residents are advised to take necessary precautions to stay safe and warm. This includes dressing in layers, checking on neighbors, particularly the elderly and those with limited mobility, and being aware of the signs of frostbite and hypothermia. Pets should be brought indoors or provided with adequate shelter and warmth.
For the latest updates on warming stations, visit the City of Denton’s official website.
Stay warm and safe, Dentonites.