City and county officials activated weather respite centers across Sacramento County today as a band of heavy rain and gusty winds moved in. The sites are intended to give people without stable shelter a dry place to sleep, hot meals and basic hygiene while the worst of the weather passes. Officials said they would keep the centers open as long as conditions require.
According to ABC10, the county opened the Outreach and Engagement Center on Auburn Boulevard (3615 Auburn Boulevard, Sacramento) and the Warren E. Thornton Youth Center gym on Branch Center Road (4000 Branch Center Road, Sacramento) today, and officials said hours would be extended as needed. The report lists heavy rain and wind as the reason for the activation. County staff are coordinating with local nonprofits to staff the sites during the activation.
Locations, hours and services
The centers are open to anyone seeking refuge from wind and rain; KCRA notes that typical services include blankets, cots, three meals a day, showers and limited accommodations for pets. Local outreach organizations such as First Step Communities have been asked to help with donations and on-site support. Sacramento Regional Transit has provided free rides to respite locations during similar activations to help people reach the sites.
How to check availability and stay safe
Officials urge people to call 2-1-1 to confirm space and services before heading to a site, as per 211 Sacramento. Forecasters have warned of heavy rain and gusty winds across the region that could cause downed trees and power outages, according to coverage of the incoming atmospheric river by KQED. Residents should avoid driving through standing water and follow local advisories until conditions improve.
