A multi-day storm is expected to bring steady rain and strong winds to the Sacramento area, prompting city and Sacramento County officials to open weather respite centers for people without stable housing. Forecasts from the National Weather Service call for several days of unsettled conditions, with both daytime and overnight shelter planned.
According to The Sacramento Bee, the city will run two walk-in sites while the county operates a third, all open across multiple days. Sites include the Outreach and Engagement Center at Del Paso Park, the North 5th Street Navigation Center and the North A Street shelter, with hours stretching from this weekend into Thursday morning.
Storm forecast and why the centers are opening
Officials are pointing to National Weather Service forecasts that call for rain from Sunday through Thursday, along with a wind advisory expected Monday that could bring gusts up to 45 mph. Under the City of Sacramento’s weather-respite criteria, these kinds of conditions trigger shelter activations when there is sustained rain or an NWS wind advisory in effect, which is what set this weekend’s openings in motion. City staff say they may extend hours or add more sites if the storm turns out to be rougher than expected.
Where to go and what to expect
Walk-ups are accepted at the Outreach and Engagement Center, which offers storage and allows pets, while the North 5th Street Navigation Center is overnight only, limited to adults, and does not accept pets, according to The Sacramento Bee. Space at each site is limited, so staff will screen people as they arrive and, when possible, connect them with case managers for additional services. County officials say the North A Street shelter will also be fully staffed, with beds and meals available to help boost overnight capacity for the duration of the stormy stretch.
How to get help
People looking for assistance, or for the most current list of open locations and hours, are being directed to call 2-1-1 or visit the 211 Sacramento website. Sacramento County has announced that regional transit will provide no-cost rides to the activated centers while they are operating, and riders are advised to bring a screenshot or printout of the county’s transit flyer when they board. Officials warn that beds can fill up quickly and urge people to confirm availability before making the trip…