As winter storms move into southwestern and south-central Kentucky, dangerously cold temperatures, snow, ice, and potential power outages can create emergencies for people who are experiencing homelessness, have inadequate heating, or are struggling to stay safe at home. That’s why local organizations and emergency agencies are activating warming shelters and resources to help keep our community safe and warm.
By working together, staying informed, and using available local resources, we can ensure everyone in the Bowling Green, Glasgow, Owensboro, and surrounding communities stays safe and warm during winter weather emergencies. ❄️
Warren County – Bowling Green, KY
- Salvation Army Bowling Green Center of Hope — Offers a day-time warming center when temperatures drop below about 35°F & full cold weather shelter in evening hours; also White Flag emergency shelter operations during prolonged cold events.
- Room In The Inn – BG — Works with area partners to provide overnight winter shelter and connects people with resources (check in requirements & hours may vary).
- Warren County Public Library & other public spaces (e.g., the Capitol Theatre or Wellness Connection) often open as informal warm indoor locations or shuttle pick-up points when severe cold hits.
- Transportation — The Warren County Sheriff’s Office may assist with transport to warming shelters when possible (call their non-emergency number).
Barren County – Glasgow, KY
- Barren County YMCA – 1 YMCA Way, Glasgow, KY, United States, 42141
- A certified Red Cross shelter, open during normal business hours for those needing to get out of the cold.
- Valid ID required
- Bridge Kentucky – 1411 N. Race St., Suite E, Glasgow
- Warming room available 24 hours a day until weather conditions improve.
- Intake forms required
- Individuals do not have to be unhoused to receive assistance
- Barren River Lake State Resort Park – Located in Lucas, southern Barren County
- Designated as a warming station by Kentucky State Parks.
- In the event of power outages, the park—along with nine other state parks—is prepared to provide temporary shelter.
Daviess County – Owensboro, KY
DATES: Monday, 26, 2026 – Sunday, February 1, 2026
- Daniel Pitino Shelter – 501 Walnut Street Owensboro, KY 42301
- HOURS: 6:00 PM – 7:00 AM
- TRANSPORTATION: Monday-Friday: Owensboro Transit System will provide free bus transportation to the Daniel Pitino Shelter Monday through Friday between the hours of 4 PM-6 PM. The shelter does NOT provide transportation.
- Meals provided at the Daniel Pitino Shelter during regularly scheduled meal hours
📌 Tips for Staying Safe in Extreme Cold
Whether you’re heading to a shelter or staying home, these cold weather safety tips can help protect you and your neighbors:
- Dress in layers with hats, gloves, scarves, and insulated boots.
- Stay dry — moisture accelerates heat loss.
- Look for frostbite & hypothermia signs — numbness, shivering, slurred speech, confusion.
- Keep a winter survival kit in your car or home (blankets, food, water, flashlight, first-aid supplies).
- Check on elderly or vulnerable neighbors — severe cold affects everyone differently.
- Call 911 in life-threatening emergencies.
📞 Helpful Contacts
- Kentucky Emergency Management (KYEM): 800-255-2587 (warming shelter info
