A late-winter cold snap will see some extreme-weather shelter beds opening up in downtown Chilliwack.
Mother nature is about to deliver a wintry mix of rain and snow across the Fraser Valley in the coming days.
When temperatures drop below zero, a designated rep has the ability to activate “an extreme-weather alert,” said Scott Gaglardi, the designated community representative, and executive director of Ruth and Naomi’s Mission.
Shelter staff can make room for extra people in the shelter at 45835 Spadina Ave., in the former United Church space.
The policy is to never turn anyone away, and those seeking shelter from the severe cold can get a warm drink, a snack and a place to rest for the night.
READ MORE: Forecast for wintry mix of rain, snow
“This extreme weather alert activates the authorities in the Assistance to Shelter Act for police to assist persons at risk due to extreme weather conditions and remains in effect until it is cancelled,” according to a release from Gaglardi.
The weather alert was issued on Monday Feb. 26, at 7:45 a.m, due to the forecast for Tuesday that indicates temperatures will be dropping to minus-2, with windchill making it feel even colder.
The shelter spaces for extreme weather, in the form of a foam mat, will be made available at the shelter run by Ruth & Naomi’s at the Cheam View United Church, 45835 Spadina Ave.
It is the second extreme-weather alert for shelters after one was also issued in January.
