Be Prepared Essentials:

Protect Pipes from Freezing: Insulate exposed pipes and faucets to prevent them from freezing and bursting. Faucets should drip overnight to keep water moving and prevent it from becoming stagnant in the pipes. Drains and outdoor faucets should be closed and faucet covers be used to protect them. Use caulk to seal cracks around pipes on your walls, both inside and outside to help insulate them. Overnight, open all cupboards and vanities which can help keep pipes warm. 

Stock Up on Essential Supplies: Ensure you have enough non-perishable food, water, prescription medications, and household items (toiletries, pet food, etc.) to last several days in case of power outages or travel disruptions.

Check Heating Systems: Make sure your furnace, space heaters, and fireplace are in good working condition. Have extra blankets, warm clothing, and sleeping bags available in case the heat goes out. Thermostats should be set to at least 50°F even if the house is vacant.

Use Space Heaters Safely: Space heaters should have three feet clearance around them at all times; Heaters should be kept away from furniture, curtains, bedding, and clothing; do not use the heater to dry clothes; place the heater on a flat level surface; plug the heater directly into an outlet; do not use extension cords; unplug the space heater when leaving the room or going to sleep; always follow the manufacturer's recommendations when using any heating source.

Weatherproof Your Home: Seal gaps around windows and doors to prevent cold drafts. Ensure you have enough insulation in your attic and walls to help keep the cold out.

Plan for Transportation Delays: If you must travel during the storm, prepare for delays. Keep your vehicle's gas tank full and have a backup plan for where to stay if you can't reach your destination.

Prepare Your Vehicle: Check tire pressure, windshield wipers, and antifreeze levels. If you must travel on the roads, ensure the vehicle is in good working order and keep the gas tank as full as possible to keep the fuel line from freezing. When driving, increase the following distance from other vehicles when maneuvering over potential ice and snow.

Stay Informed: Monitor weather forecasts and warnings via local news, weather apps, and the National Weather Service. Sign up for local emergency alerts so you can stay updated on storm progress and emergency measures.

Stay Warm: During extreme temperatures, remain indoors as much as possible. When going outside, wear several layers of loose clothing, protect your ears, face, hands, and feet. Keep exposure to the elements for pets at a minimum and check on elderly or at-risk neighbors who may need assistance.  

Additional Resources

https://www.homelessauthority.org/need-help/ - CSAH: Chatham Savannah Authority for the Homeless

https://www.chathamemergency.org/- CEMA: Chatham Emergency Management

https://www.weather.gov/safety/- National Weather Service

Updates

Jan 30, 2026 - Extreme Cold Watch Issued for Savannah/Chatham County

 An Extreme Cold Weather Watch has been issued for Savannah and Chatham County. Dangerously cold temperatures will move into our area Saturday evening and continue through Monday morning. Temperatures will drop into the low 20s, with wind chill temperatures dropping below 10 degrees. There is a chance of rain and/or snow Saturday afternoon into Sunday.

The City of Savannah, Chatham County, and community partners are working together to open a warming center at the Greenbriar Children’s Center for those without heat or housing. The Greenbriar Children’s Center gymnasium, located at 3709 Hopkins Street, will open Saturday at 7 p.m. and close at 7 a.m. the following morning. The center will open again Sunday night at 7 p.m. and close at 7 a.m. Monday morning. Pets, under the owner’s control, are welcome.

Shelter Information: 

Greenbriar Children's Center gymnasium - 3709 Hopkins St.

• 7 p.m. Saturday, January 31 - 7 a.m. Sunday, February 1st
• 7 p.m. Sunday, February 1 - 7 a.m. Monday, February 2

Salvation Army - 3100 Montgomery St. 

• 5 beds for women 
• 3 beds for men 

Union Mission - 120 Fahm St. 

• 5 beds for women 
• 15 beds for men

Come As You Are - 1901 Pennsylvania Ave. 

• 30 beds available 

Shelter availability is limited and offered on a first-come, first-served basis. Renegade Paws is available for pet assistance. 

Transportation Assistance 

The Chatham Savannah Authority for the Homeless (CSAH) Outreach Team is available to assist individuals with transportation to shelter locations: 

Monday– Tuesday, Jan. 26-27 
8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m., call 912-547-0652 

5 p.m. - 9 p.m., call 912-547-7877 

After 9 p.m. on Monday, Jan. 26, call 912-803-2994.