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Department of Emergency Management

For Immediate Release

Sonoma County health officer issues cold weather advisory for freeze warning

SANTA ROSA, CA | February 07, 2025

En español »

Sonoma County Health Officer Dr. Karen Smith today issued a cold weather advisory in response to the National Weather Service freeze warning for early Saturday morning, Feb. 8, from 1 a.m. to 8 a.m. The National Weather Service is predicting temperatures as low as 32 degrees in Sonoma County interior valleys. The National Weather Service is also predicting freezing overnight temperatures through Feb. 12.

Officials recommend that residents limit time outdoors as serious medical conditions, including hypothermia and frostbite, can develop with prolonged cold weather exposure. Additionally, roads may be icy after a series of rainstorms, so caution while driving is advised.

Individuals who are unhoused may consider moving to their nearest shelter, if possible. Some shelters have expanded capacity on a first-come, first-served basis, with many offering wraparound services as well.

For the most up-to-date information about warming centers around Sonoma County and whether the cold weather advisory will be extended, visit: https://socoemergency.org/emergency/extreme-cold/

Prolonged exposure to freezing temperatures can lead to hypothermia. Hypothermia is a medical emergency that causes a dangerously low body temperature and can be fatal if untreated. Symptoms of hypothermia include confusion, dizziness, exhaustion, severe shivering, clumsiness, slurred speech or mumbling drowsiness, weak pulse, slow and shallow breathing, and progressive loss of consciousness. Seek medical attention if you experience these symptoms.

Additional cold weather safety tips include:

  • Drive slowly and be on the lookout for hazardous travel with slick road conditions, including possible ponding on roads and freeway off-ramps, and minor flooding in low-lying or poor drainage areas.
  • Unsheltered community members, older adults, children and those with access and functional needs should seek shelter now as they are at higher risks of hypothermia.
  • Avoid being outside during the coldest part of the day or for extended periods of time in extreme cold weather.
  • Dress in layers, wear a hat, scarf, gloves and mittens, and waterproof, insulated boots to avoid hypothermia or frostbite.
  • Get out of wet clothes as soon as possible to reduce the risk of hypothermia.
  • Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water with electrolytes.
  • Avoid excessive consumption of alcohol and non-prescription medication if you will be staying outside as it may lead to death or serious injury.
  • Seek medical attention immediately and call 911 if you see someone experiencing hypothermia.

For information on preparing for extreme cold visit: Get Ready.

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Contact Information:
Sheri Cardo, DHS Communications Specialist
sheri.cardo@sonoma-county.org
(707) 565-8619

Matt Brown, Communications Specialist
publicaffairs@sonoma-county.org 
(707) 565-3040
575 Administration Drive, Suite 104A
Santa Rosa, CA 95403

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