December 1, 2023

Due to staffing shortages, the Columbia County Warming Center will operate only as a Severe Weather Center from December 1, 2023 through March 15, 2024.  CAT staff will continue to work with all unsheltered individuals in order to help them explore housing and shelter options.

CAT staff will monitor weather conditions using the National Weather Service.  Days and Hours of Operation will be updated on the Columbia County Warming Center Facebook page.

The Severe Weather Shelter will open as needed when any of the following conditions are expected to persist for four (4) hours or more, between the hours of 8 p.m. and 7 a.m.

• Forecasted temperature of 25° F or below.
• Forecasted snow accumulation of 1.0 inch or more.
• Forecasted temperature at or below 32° F (0° C) with rain of 1.0 inch or more overnight.

During severe weather events, the shelter will operate as following:

Open – 8 p.m. to 7 a.m.

Check In – 8 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.

Location – 1775 St. Helens St., St. Helens OR.

Phone – 503-369-4889.

When severe weather thresholds are not met – but when overnight temperatures are forecasted at 32 degrees or below for roughly four (4) hours or longer – CAT will work in conjunction with other service providers to conduct additional focused outreach.  The goal will be to identify vulnerable houseless individuals, triage the situation, and distribute cold weather gear as needed.