Multnomah County is opening three severe weather shelters at 8 p.m. Monday, as overnight temperatures are expected to dip into the mid-20s.
Washington County is also opening additional severe weather shelters starting at 5 p.m. Monday. And overnight shelters will be open in Clark County and Clackamas County.
According to a press release, Multnomah County Chair Jessica Vega Pederson will declare a state of emergency that goes into effect at 6 p.m. Monday.
“Emergency managers and the Multnomah County Health Officer are advising all community members to get ready,” the county said in a press release. “Check on your neighbors: Please knock on the door, make the call, let people know if you’re going to the store and ask how you might help.”
The National Weather Service has issued a cold weather advisory for much of western Oregon and Southwest Washington including the greater Portland-Vancouver metro area, starting at 7 p.m. Monday. Forecasters say temperatures could drop to as low as 15 to 25 degrees in some areas.
The advisory will remain in effect until noon Tuesday.
If you are traveling outside, officials are warning people to use caution, dress warmly, and cover any exposed skin to prevent frostbite and hypothermia.
TriMet will offer free rides for anyone traveling to or from a warming shelter who is unable to pay fare.
Anyone who needs information on transportation, shelters or resources can call 211.
