Sonoma County health officials extend freeze warning

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The County of Sonoma has extended its freeze warning until Wednesday, Dec. 14 in response to the National Weather Service’s prediction of sub-freezing temperatures through mid-week. Originally, the county had issued a warning of potential sub-freezing temperatures from Dec. 8 through Sunday, Dec. 11. Officials recommend that residents limit time outdoors, as serious medical conditions including hypothermia and frostbite can develop with prolonged cold weather exposure.

Individuals who are unhoused are encouraged to move to their nearest shelter if possible. Some winter shelters in Sonoma County have expanded capacity on a first-come, first-served basis, with many offering wraparound services as well. The following locations are offering services and/or shelter:

• Reach For Home - located at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 209 W. Matheson St. in Healdsburg. Check-in is from 6 to 9 p.m. Limited dinners are available at 6 p.m. Guests must check out by 7 a.m. The shelter is open to adults and families.
• West County Community Services - located at the Guerneville Veterans Building, 16255 First St., Guerneville. Winter capacity has been expanded by eight for a total of 35 beds.

For the most up-to-date information about warming centers around Sonoma County visit: https://socoemergency.org/emergency/extreme-cold/

Prolonged exposure to freezing temperatures can lead to hypothermia, 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, 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 look out for hazardous road conditions including slick pavement, 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:  
Matt Brown, Communications Specialist
publicaffairs@sonoma-county.org
575 Administration Drive, Suite 104A
Santa Rosa, CA 95403
(707) 565-3040