Lincoln, Neb. – The Lincoln‑Lancaster County Health Department (LLCHD) and Mayor Leirion Gaylor Baird announced a comprehensive Cold Response Plan aimed at protecting residents during the coming winter months. The plan introduces three clearly defined weather alerts—Cold Weather Advisory, Extreme Cold Watch, and Extreme Cold Warning—so families, seniors, and vulnerable community members can act quickly when temperatures dip to dangerous levels.

Clear alerts, coordinated response

According to the plan, a Cold Weather Advisory is issued when wind chill or temperature falls between ‑20 °F and ‑29 °F. An Extreme Cold Watch signals that exceptionally cold weather is expected, while an Extreme Cold Warning is triggered when temperatures are projected to reach ‑30 °F or colder. When any of these alerts are in effect, the city will open a network of warming centers during regular business hours.

Warming centers ready to serve

Residents can find safe, heated spaces at a variety of familiar locations, including city libraries, Parks and Recreation community centers, Victory Park Senior Center, and several faith‑based and nonprofit facilities. Specific sites listed in the plan are:

• The Bridge Connect – 721 “K” St.
• Catholic Social Services – 2241 “O” St.
• Community Action Partnership – 210 “O” St.
• Grace Chapel – 1345 S. 16th St.
• Matt Talbot Kitchen and Outreach – 2121 N. 27th St.
• People’s City Mission – 110 “Q” St.
• Salvation Army – 2625 Potter St.

Each site will provide a warm environment, basic refreshments, and staff assistance to ensure that anyone seeking shelter can stay safe and comfortable.

Mayor and health officials stress community responsibility

“The Cold Response Plan is designed to help the community prepare for and respond to extreme cold events and keep residents safe, warm, and informed as temperatures drop,” Mayor Gaylor Baird said. “Local data shows a steady increase in emergency‑room visits for cold‑related illnesses over the past several years. The City, County, and our community partners want to reverse that trend.”

LLCHD Director Kerry Kernen added practical advice for individuals facing the cold: “During cold weather alerts, residents can also take personal actions to protect their health and the health of our community members, including staying warm, checking on relatives, neighbors, friends and pets, dressing properly, moving carefully, and avoiding overexertion.”

Nonprofit leaders welcome shared terminology

Alynn Sampson, Executive Director of Matt Talbot Kitchen and Outreach, highlighted the importance of a common language for alerts. “One of the most helpful aspects of the cold weather plan is establishing a common language of weather alerts including Cold Weather Advisories, Extreme Cold Watches and Extreme Cold Warnings. Having shared terminology and clear communication helps community partners anticipate dangerous conditions, prepare their facilities and staff, and coordinate their response,” Sampson said.

Why the plan matters for families and faith communities

For families with young children, seniors, and faith‑based groups that often serve as community anchors, the plan offers a reliable safety net. By coordinating with churches such as Grace Chapel and Catholic Social Services, the city ensures that traditional family and faith networks remain integral to the public‑health response.

Mayor Baird emphasized that the plan reflects the city’s commitment to protecting the most vulnerable while respecting the role of families and churches in caring for one another. “We are proud to work side‑by‑side with our faith‑based partners and nonprofit allies to keep Lincoln safe this winter,” she said.

How to stay informed

Residents are encouraged to monitor local news outlets, the city’s official website, and the National Weather Service for alert updates. The LLCHD will also disseminate information through social media, text alerts, and community bulletin boards.

With the Cold Response Plan in place, Lincoln aims to reduce cold‑related emergencies, protect public health, and demonstrate the power of community collaboration during the harshest months of the year.

Original reporting: KLKN-TV – News, Weather and Sports for Lincoln, Nebraska — read the source article.