Houston Warming Centers Prepare to Open at Harris County Community Centers and YMCA Locations During Arctic Freeze

In anticipation of freezing temperatures set to hit the Houston area next week, Harris County Precinct 4 and the YMCA of Greater Houston have announced the opening of warming centers to provide shelter and essential services to residents in need. These centers will open their doors starting Monday, January 20, ensuring that individuals have a safe place to escape the cold.

The National Weather Service has issued a forecast warning of a potential winter storm expected to impact parts of Texas on Monday and Tuesday, bringing widespread precipitation. There is a significant likelihood of snow and/or ice across much of southeast Texas from Monday night through Tuesday evening. Following the storm, a series of strong cold fronts will usher in a very cold week, with minimum temperatures near or below freezing. A hard freeze is anticipated Tuesday night in many areas, prompting officials to advise residents to prepare this weekend to protect the "four Ps"—people, pets, plants, and pipes.

Harris County Precinct 4 Warming Centers

Commissioner Lesley Briones has designated three community centers in Harris County Precinct 4 as warming shelters for January 20 and 21. Open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., these facilities will serve as safe havens for residents needing warmth and protection:

• Bayland Community Center: 6400 Bissonnet Street, Houston, TX 77074

• Burnett Bayland Community Center: 6026 Chimney Rock Rd., Houston, TX 77081

• Radack Community Center: 18650 Clay Rd., Houston, TX 77084

Residents seeking more information can contact the Harris County Community Assistance Division at 832-927-4444 or visit the Precinct 4 website at cp4.harriscountytx.gov/Community-Centers.

Commissioner Briones stated, “As temperatures drop, it is critical that we ensure the safety and well-being of our residents. These centers will serve as a refuge for anyone in need during this cold snap.”

Mobile Sidebar Ad

Harris County Precinct 3 Community Centers and Parks

Harris County Precinct 3 has announced that all community centers and offices will be closed on Monday, January 20, 2025, in observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day. On Tuesday, January 21, 2025, the Cactus Jack Cagle and May Community Centers will remain closed.

Meanwhile, all Precinct 3 parks will remain open to the public; however, water amenities will operate on a limited basis starting Sunday, January 19, 2025, until further notice.

YMCA of Greater Houston Warming Centers

The YMCA of Greater Houston is opening all its locations as warming centers, welcoming residents to use their facilities during operating hours starting Monday, January 20. Visitors can take advantage of lobbies, device charging stations, showers, Child Watch services, and even participate in classes.

A valid ID is required for entry. Residents are encouraged to verify operating hours and availability for each YMCA location by visiting ymcahouston.org/facility-updates.

The following YMCA locations are participating, with their physical addresses listed for convenience:

• Aldine – Greenspoint Family YMCA: 500 Greens Rd., Houston, TX 77060

• Alief Family YMCA: 7850 Howell Sugar Land Rd., Houston, TX 77083

• Baytown Family YMCA: 6363 Garth Rd., Baytown, TX 77521

• Brenda and John Duncan YMCA: 10655 Clay Rd., Houston, TX 77041

• Connect YMCA: 3701 Westcenter Dr., Houston, TX 77042

• Conroe Family YMCA: 10245 Owen Dr., Conroe, TX 77304

• D. Bradley McWilliams YMCA at Cypress Creek: 19915 TX-249, Houston, TX 77070

• East End YMCA: 407 Gulf Freeway, Houston, TX 77011

• Fort Bend Family YMCA: 4433 Cartwright Rd., Missouri City, TX 77459

• Harriet and Joe Foster Family YMCA: 1234 W. 34th St., Houston, TX 77018

• Holcomb Family YMCA: 5201 Imperial Promenade Dr., Spring, TX 77386

• Houston Texans YMCA: 5202 Griggs Rd., Houston, TX 77021

• Lake Houston Family YMCA: 2420 W. Lake Houston Pkwy., Kingwood, TX 77339

• Langham Creek Family YMCA: 16725 Longenbaugh Dr., Houston, TX 77095

• M.D. Anderson Family YMCA: 705 Cavalcade St., Houston, TX 77009

• Mark A. Chapman YMCA at Katy Main Street: 1350 Main St., Katy, TX 77493

• Monty Ballard YMCA at Cinco Ranch: 22807 Westheimer Pkwy., Katy, TX 77494

• Perry Family YMCA: 1700 League City Pkwy., League City, TX 77573

• T.W. Davis Family YMCA: 911 Thompson Rd., Richmond, TX 77469

• Tellepsen Family Downtown YMCA: 808 Pease St., Houston, TX 77002

• The Woodlands Family YMCA at Branch Crossing: 8100 Ashlane Way, The Woodlands, TX 77382

• The Woodlands Family YMCA at Shadowbend: 6145 Shadowbend Pl., The Woodlands, TX 77381

• Trotter Family YMCA: 1331 Augusta Dr., Houston, TX 77057

• Vic Coppinger Family YMCA: 2700 YMCA Dr., Pearland, TX 77581

• Weekley Family YMCA: 7101 Stella Link Rd., Houston, TX 77025

• Wendel D. Ley Family YMCA: 15055 Wallisville Rd., Houston, TX 77049

• West Orem Family YMCA: 5801 W. Orem Dr., Houston, TX 77085

• YMCA Children’s Academy at Texas Medical Center: 7900 N. Stadium Dr., Houston, TX 77030

• YMCA Children’s Academy at Avenue Center: 2800 Navigation Blvd., Houston, TX 77003

Importance of Warming Centers During Freezing Temperatures

Both Harris County and the YMCA emphasize the critical role these warming centers play in keeping residents safe during extreme weather.

As Houston prepares for freezing temperatures, local officials urge residents to take necessary precautions, check on vulnerable neighbors, and seek refuge at these warming centers if needed.

For the most up-to-date information, visit ymcahouston.org or contact Harris County Precinct 4 at 832-927-4444.