Cold Weather Shelter Open In North Port: Sarasota County

NORTH PORT, FL — With temperatures dropping in Florida overnight Tuesday, Sarasota County is opening a cold weather shelter.

Temperatures could dip as low as 44 degrees overnight in the greater Tampa Bay area, forecasters said.

The shelter opened at 100 Church, 1425 Tamiami Trail in North Port, at 5 p.m., according to a news release from the county. Those attending should bring their own sleeping materials.

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The Breeze Route 9 bus, which is operating on a normal schedule, will arrive within about one block of 100 Church. Those in the North Port service area could also use the Breeze OnDemand service, the county said.

Pets shouldn’t be left outside during the cold weather, Sarasota County Emergency Management officials reminded residents.

Those who need to be outside overnight or during the early morning hours are encouraged to dress in several warm layers and limit skin exposure to the wind, officials added.

Residents should use caution when heating their home, as the risk of fire and carbon monoxide poisoning increases during very cold weather due to the improper use of heating devices, Sarasota County Fire Department officials said.