Warming centers across Northeast Ohio expand hours as dangerous cold persists through late January

Where residents can go now as wind chills drop below zero

Extreme cold across Northeast Ohio has prompted local governments and partner agencies to activate and extend warming options for residents who lack reliable heat, face homelessness, or need a safe indoor place during the day. In Cleveland, the city’s recreation system is operating multiple warming centers with expanded hours through the end of the week and into the weekend, reflecting forecasts that prolonged frigid conditions will continue.

Cleveland’s current warming-center network is based in neighborhood recreation facilities and is open to men, women, and families. These sites are designed for daytime relief and can also connect people to overnight shelter options when needed.

Cleveland warming centers: locations and hours

The City of Cleveland is operating four warming centers:

• Michael Zone Recreation Center, 6301 Lorain Ave.
• E.J. Kovacic Recreation Center, 6250 St. Clair Ave.
• Zelma George Recreation Center, 3155 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.
• Collinwood Recreation Center, 16300 Lakeshore Blvd.

Operating hours have been set at 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. on weekdays during this activation, with weekend hours extending from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Free transportation assistance to overnight shelter locations has also been made available through the recreation system, and transit support has been used to help residents reach shelters and other services.

Overnight shelter access in Cleveland: what to know

For overnight shelter placement in Cuyahoga County, coordinated intake is handled through the 2-1-1 system. After-hours pathways are also in place for people seeking immediate shelter, including established public shelter facilities on Lakeside Avenue and Payne Avenue. Separately, a seasonal winter shelter for people who typically sleep outdoors opened this month in downtown Cleveland at 1530 E. 19th St., operating nightly from 6 p.m. to 8 a.m., adding capacity during the winter period.

Akron and Summit County: overnight warming center triggers at 25°F or below

In Akron, an Emergency Overnight Warming Center operates at 111 E. Voris St. during cold-weather activations. Guest hours run from 7 p.m. to 8 a.m., with operations tied to temperature thresholds. Daytime warming options have also been used at community centers, including the Summit Lake Community Center at 380 W. Crosier St. during extreme cold events.

How residents can find the nearest option

Because activations and hours can shift with weather and staffing, residents are encouraged to use 2-1-1 to confirm availability and locate the nearest warming center or shelter. County emergency-management resources may also provide updated maps and guidance during prolonged cold snaps.

If someone shows signs of hypothermia or frostbite, or is in immediate danger outdoors, call 911.