Over the next several days, Etowah County will experience the coldest air of the season thus far. From Friday (12/30) until Tuesday (01/02) we could see temperatures as low as 17 degrees Fahrenheit, winds ranging from 5-12 mph with gusts up to 15 mph, and wind chills as low as 8 degrees Fahrenheit. Remember, wind chill temperature is how cold people and animals FEEL when outside. Be mindful to layer your clothing. Make sure your pets and livestock are properly cared for. Bring plants indoors, or cover them. Winterize your vehicle. Check your home and auto emergency supply kits. Take necessary steps to ensure that pipes and faucets do not freeze and burst. Be safe with your fire places and other heating devices. All preparations for the arrival of extreme cold temperatures should be made immediately.

The following locations will open as Warming Centers:

• The Salvation Army (114 N 11th Street, Gadsden)

8 p.m. Saturday, December 30th until the extreme cold ends.

(256) 546-4673

• Elliott Community Center (2829 W Meighan Blvd, Gadsden)

Sunday, December 31st and Monday, January 1st from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m.

(256) 549-4674

For information on building emergency supply kits and more winter weather preparedness tips, visithttp://www.weather.gov/bmx/outreach_wwaw2017 and see the GECEMA blog at http://www.gecema.com/blogDetail.php?id_blog=73

Please follow @GECEMA on Facebook and Twitter for the latest updates, or contact the Gadsden/Etowah County EMA at 256-549-4575 for more information.

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