City of St. Louis Outlines Preparations for Extreme Cold Weather Event

The City of St. Louis is preparing for dangerously cold temperatures and the potential for significant winter weather, including snow, sleet, or ice accumulation, based on National Weather Service (NWS) forecasts. A Winter Storm Watch is in effect from late Friday night through Sunday morning, with the possibility of 4 to 6 inches of snow across the region. While some uncertainty remains regarding the storm’s exact track, confidence is increasing that accumulating snowfall could begin Saturday morning and continue through Sunday midday, potentially making travel very difficult.

Forecasted temperatures are expected to drop into the single digits overnight, with daytime highs in the teens and 20s, and wind chills falling below zero at times. City agencies join NWS in urging residents to take precautions and preventive measures to protect themselves and their families during extreme conditions. Residents and visitors should stay informed, adjust travel plans as needed, and monitor local media, the City’s website, and City Emergency Management (CEMA) social media channels for updates. Residents are also encouraged to sign up for emergency alerts through NotifySTL.

"Now is the time to prepare,” said Gregg Favre, Commissioner of the City Emergency Management Agency (CEMA). “With temperatures dropping into the single digits and the potential for snow or ice this weekend, simple steps today – like checking your heating system, stocking supplies, and planning to limit time outdoors – can make all the difference in keeping you and your loved ones safe." 

Health:

Cold weather poses serious public health risks. Extreme cold temperatures, along with wind chill, increase the likelihood of frostbite, hypothermia, falls on icy surfaces, home-heating fires, carbon monoxide poisoning, and dangerous travel conditions. Older adults, young children, people with disabilities, and those without stable heat are most at risk. Residents should dress in warm layers, cover exposed skin, limit time outdoors during extreme cold, bring pets inside, and check on neighbors who may need extra help. 

“Spending extended time outdoors during these conditions poses a risk for anyone,” said Victoria Anwuri, Commissioner of the Department of Health. “Be sure to monitor your friends, family, and loved ones for signs of extreme cold exposure, including shivering, confusion, drowsiness, or bright red and cold skin. If you witness any of this, call 9-1-1.”

Unhoused Services:

Anyone in need of shelter can call 2-1-1 to connect with available resources, including referral assistance with overnight emergency beds or information on current daytime warming centers. Additional information on daytime warming centers is available on the City’s website. For emergency walk-up services for single men, please contact the Biddle Housing Opportunities Center at 1212 N. 13 St. For emergency services for women and children, please call 2-1-1.

“Additional emergency winter beds will be available throughout this extreme period of winter cold. In total, there will be a thousand – between the baseline beds and Code Blue beds,” Dr. Adam Pearson, director of the Department of Human Services, said. “With this in mind, I implore anyone in the City to seek out shelter, since it's going to be too cold to be spending the evenings outside."

Utility Assistance:

Area seniors, people with physical disabilities, and low-income families who cannot afford their winter heating bills may qualify for help through HeatUpStLouis.org, a regional charity that serves as a safety net, providing utility assistance to those in need. To qualify, call 314-241-0001.

Fire & Heat Safety:

During the winter season, space heaters are a common way to provide additional warmth. The City of St. Louis Fire Department strongly recommends using the primary heating system designed for your home. However, if you choose to use a space heater as a supplemental heating source, it's crucial to use it safely and in accordance with the manufacturer’s guidelines. Always keep space heaters at least three feet away from anything that can burn, including papers, clothing, and rugs. Never leave a heater unattended and always turn it off before going to bed or leaving the room. Ensure your space heater has an automatic shut-off feature in case it tips over. 

"Every winter, we see the risks that come with improper use of space heaters. This year, as we anticipate dangerously low temperatures and high winds, we urge everyone to prioritize safety,” said Fire Chief Dennis M. Jenkerson. “A moment's inattention can lead to devastating consequences. Remember, your safety is in your hands. Let's keep our community warm and safe by following these simple guidelines."

Streets:

In anticipation of possible precipitation this weekend, the City of St. Louis Streets Department has begun pretreating snow routes. The department will continue monitoring the forecast and adjust treatment and salting plans as needed. A list of St. Louis’ 450 linear miles of snow routes can be found on the city’s website, and residents are urged to avoid parking on snow routes. In the event of snow and ice, the City will prioritize plowing and treatment on main arterials, followed by secondary and hill snow routes.  

“Drivers should take extra care during storms, navigating slick wet roads, and remember to slow down,” said Streets Commissioner Kent Flake. “Crews are ready to work to keep city streets clear and safe for residents. When you do not need to be on the roads, please avoid driving to give crews and their trucks the space they need to work.” 

Water:

As water expands when it freezes, pipes exposed to temperatures below 20 degrees for extended periods are at greatest risk, with the most significant damage occurring when the pipes eventually thaw.

The City of St. Louis Water Division recommends the following:

• Keep water moving by letting cold water drip from faucets, especially those on exterior walls.
• Open cabinet doors under sinks and keep pipes on exterior walls well-insulated.
• Disconnect hoses from outdoor spigots, and cover the spigots with foam insulators.
• Know the location of your shut-off valve and how to operate it in case of an emergency.
• If traveling:  
  • 1) Turn off your hot water heater  
  • 2) Shut off your water supply 
  • 3) Open your faucets
• Reminder:  NEVER use an open flame to warm your pipes.

In the event of an emergency, please call 314-771-4880 to request a water shut-off at the tee head outside the home. For any other water-related incidents involving the public right-of-way, take precautions if driving and call the Citizens’ Service Bureau at 314-622-4800.

Travel Precautions:

The City joins the NWS St. Louis’ recommendation that commuters begin any travel with a full tank of gas and to carry a winter storm kit, which includes a shovel, flashlight, cellphone, food, water, blankets, and extra warm clothing. Drivers should plan for a slower-than-normal trip and be extremely cautious when approaching bridges, exit ramps, overpasses, and curves. In Missouri, call 1-888-275-6636 or use the MODOT Travelers Map mobile app for state road information. For those traveling to or from Illinois, visit gettingaroundillinois.com for statewide information.