Temperatures across Oregon will drop well below freezing over the next few nights, according to the National Weather Service.
In Multnomah County, the Joint Office of Homeless Services has issued a cold weather alert.
County spokesperson Denis Theriault said that means teams will increase outreach protocols throughout the county.
Expect generally dry weather & cool temperatures the next several days. High temperatures will be near 40°F across inland valleys & low temperatures will drop down into the mid 20s to low 30s. It will feel colder as winds increase Thursday & Friday. #pdxtst #orwx #wawx pic.twitter.com/Dflk7TY5wB
— NWS Portland (@NWSPortland) December 13, 2022
“That’s getting outreach teams and volunteers out with hand warmers, gloves, coats, socks, sweatshirts, blankets, things like that to help folks stay warm,” he said.
In Umatilla County, the temperature could get down to 12 degrees later this week. Anyone needing overnight shelter in the area should contact the organizations Neighbor 2 Neighbor or Promise Inn.
Elsewhere in the state, anyone looking for cold weather resources can call 211 or visit 211info.org.
And Theriault says people who would like to donate resources for keeping people warm can do so through 211 as well.
“You don’t have to drive over to them,” he said. “You don’t have to pick it out and shop. You can just order from a wish list and they’ll get the sleeping bags, blankets, and gloves, and all that out to folks.”
Correction: This story previously gave incorrect information about how many shelter beds are currently open in Multnomah County.