Officials Urge Caution During Extreme Cold Weather

PITTSBURGH (KDKA) – With extreme cold temperatures expected to hit our region Monday, city officials are urging the public to use caution.

From 1 p.m. Monday through 10 a.m. Wednesday, the National Weather Service says to expect temperatures in the single digits and as low as -15 degrees. With wind chill factored in, the NWS says it could feel as cold as -45 degrees in higher elevations and closer to -25 in lower elevations.

Pittsburgh Public Safety Director Michael Huss and Mayor-Elect Bill Peduto say they are working to ensure the public's safety during the extreme cold.

• Look for warming centers by county

"I can't stress how dangerous these low temperatures can be on everyone, especially
our elderly population, children, and even city employees," Huss said in a statement. "It's extremely important that you stay inside and check on your elderly neighbors, family and children. Keep your animals inside and if you cannot safely maintain heat inside of your home, call 311 before it becomes an emergency and we will get you to a warm place."

Officials also say they will be transporting homeless residents to shelters and animal control will be on the lookout for any animals that are out for prolonged periods of time.

They've also released the following list of warming centers in Allegheny County:

Greenfield Healthy Active Living Center
745 Greenfield Avenue
412-422-6551

Homewood Healthy Active Living Center
7321 Frankstown Avenue
412-244-4190

South Side Healthy Active Living Center
12th and Bingham Streets
412-488-8404

Sheraden Healthy Active Living Center
720 Sherwood Avenue
412-777-5012

North Side, Allegheny Center Healthy Active
Living Center - Allegheny Square
412-323-7239

Officials also say the city's 311 line will have extended hours and will operate until 10 p.m. Monday and Tuesday. The 311 line is intended for non-emergency issues -- for an emergency, call 911.

Additionally, extra PWSA staff and EMS resources will be available during the burst of cold weather.

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