Residents seeking warmth during the extremely low temperatures this Saturday and Sunday will have additional options as the city braces for the freezing temperatures, with some forecasts projecting negative wind chills throughout much of the weekend.
Staying Warm Between 6 am and 8 pm
This Saturday and Sunday, the West Plains Civic Center Exhibit Hall (110 St. Louis Street) will open from 6 am to 8 pm for people to shelter from the extreme cold. Visitors can enter through the main entrance on the west side, and some chairs will be set up in the Exhibit Hall. For comfort, people are encouraged to bring blankets or any other items that might be needed. The West Plains Public Library (750 West Broadway) will also be open from 9 am to 5 pm on Saturday for people to escape the cold, but the Library will not be open on Sunday.
Staying Warm Between 8 pm and 6 am
The building located south of the First Baptist Church main campus (202 Walnut Street) will open this Saturday and Sunday from 8 pm to 6 am. Cots and some bedding will be made available, although people are also strongly encouraged to bring their own blankets or sleeping bags.
The City of West Plains encourages any residents who have had their power shut off to please contact City Utilities at 256-7176 to reconnect services.
