COLLEGE STATION, Texas — The American Red Cross is working to establish warming centers in the Brazos Valley, but officials say they are experiencing "compounding problems," according to a Tuesday news release.
The problems include unsafe driving conditions, lack of electricity at shelter locations, travel issues for staff and volunteers to operate the warming centers, as well as COVID-19 precautions that are needed to operate.
"The American Red Cross is able to establish and/or support warming centers at the request, and always in conjunction with, local emergency management. Brazos County, Bryan and College Station are working with us to develop solutions for those in need this week," the news release said.
Even so, the Red Cross said it is able to provide non-congregate and congregate sheltering, as well as food to people who fall under certain special requirements that are a result of age, medical conditions, or are exacerbated by the cold, those stranded on the highway and those affected by power outages for more than 48 hours, the news release said.
"Should community members meet requirements, the concern is still travel to a location, as well as electricity at the location, be it a large shelter or hotel room. Many hotels are also without power at this point," according to the release. "...We will continue to work with our community partners to find solutions to provide assistance."
In the meantime, the Red Cross is encouraging the public to continue conserving heat by insulating entrances and windows, use safe heating sources and leave water running.