NEW ORLEANS – The City of New Orleans announced it will activate its citywide freeze plan Thursday evening (Dec. 5) as temperatures are expected to fall near freezing during the overnight hours.

It feels like temperatures could drop to or slightly below freezing, reaching the plan’s threshold of below 35 degrees – including wind chill – for more than four hours.

Although no hard frost is expected, the city urged residents to take precautions to protect people, pets and plants.

Accommodation for unaccommodated people

Temporary accommodation is provided free of charge for unoccupied residents. Anyone needing accommodations is asked to call 311.

The following locations are opening their doors Thursday evening:

• Ozanam Inn: 2239 Poydras Street, starting at 4:00 p.m
• New Orleans Mission: 1130 Oretha Castle Haley Boulevard, starting at 4 p.m
• The Salvation Army: 4526 S. Claiborne Avenue, starting at 4 p.m
• Low Barrier Shelter: 1530 Gravier Street, starting at 6:00 p.m

The city urges residents to follow these tips to stay safe during the cold snap:

• In extreme cold, stay indoors and take advantage of the warmth.
• If you venture outside, wear layers of clothing, a hat and gloves, and take a cell phone with you.
• Check on neighbors, children, the elderly and people with chronic illnesses.
• Bring pets into the house.

• Never leave space heaters unattended.
• Do not use stoves or stoves to heat your home.
• Check that smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are working properly.
• Have a fire extinguisher available and know how to use it.