The cities of McAllen and Edinburg have opened warming centers to help residents without power fight the bitter cold.
McAllen residents without electricity can stay at the Las Palmas Community Center, located at 1921 N. 25th St., or at the Palm View Community Center, located at 3401 Jordan Road.
The centers opened at noon Wednesday and will be available from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. through Friday, according to a city news release.
Wi-Fi access and water stations will be available but visitors will have to provide their chargers.
Residents can access the facility for three-hour windows but can stay longer if the facility is not at capacity. However, the center will not be open for overnight stay.
Visitors will be screened for COVID-19 at sign-in, the center is set up for social distancing, and mask use is required, according to the news release.
Everyone will be asked to stay within their families while inside the facility. Pets are not allowed.
Additionally, the city stated pre-registration is not required and walk-ins are welcome. Both locations have running water and restrooms.
“In case you are without electricity and heat and are in need of some place to warm up, the City of McAllen has opened two warming stations,” City Manager Roy Rodriguez said. “There is electricity and heat and you and your family are welcome here!”
For location information, residents can call 3-1-1. Updates can also be found on social media pages for the city of McAllen, the Texas Government and McAllen’s Parks & Recreation department.
The city of Edinburg announced Wednesday morning that the Dustin Sekula Memorial Library at 1906 S. Closner Blvd. has been activated as a warming center.
“The 24-hour warming center will remain open until power is restored in the city,” an Edinburg news release stated.
Those in need of the shelter will have access to the library’s Wi-Fi connection and can charge their electronic devices.
The city is asking residents to bring their own bedding, medication, food and snacks.
“Residents will be screened, temperature checks will be taken at the door and social distancing guidelines will be strictly enforced,” the release stated. “Facial coverings and masks must be worn at all times. Space is limited and occupancy will be filled on a first come first serve basis.”
However, anyone who has recently tested positive for COVID-19 must shelter in place according to guidelines set by the CDC, the city stressed.
Anyone with questions should call the city helpline at (956) 259-HELP.
