Cold, stormy weather ahead
The National Weather Service, along with every single Bay Area meteorologist, says that stormy cold weather is ahead, and taking the usual precautions for such weather is in order today.
If you liked yesterday's wind, you're in luck! There is a wind advisory for wind with gusts up to 40 mph this afternoon and tonight, along with a frost advisory that could drive overnight temperatures down to the low 30s and daytime highs in the 40s.
This means checking your flashlights for working batteries, gathering up the candles, and making sure you have something to light them with. It also means that pets should come in, and plants, especially citrus, should be covered to guard against frostbite.
Rain arriving today and tomorrow will bring snow to the Sierra and possibly a dusting to Bay Area's higher peaks, and some areas could see as much as 2 inches of rain.
Those living outdoors are urged to seek shelter. Due to the arrival of the cold, wet weather, several warming centers are open this week, and year-round shelters are continuing their operations.
Shelters in Contra Costa County
County officials say that anyone needing assistance with getting placed in a shelter should call the Contra Costa Crisis Center directly at 211. People in need of help finding resources in Contra Costa County also can text the word “HOPE” to 20121.
Concord Service Center Overnight Warming Center
2047 Arnold Industrial Way, Suite A, Concord, CA 94520
Greater Richmond Interfaith Program (GRIP)
165 22nd Street, Richmond, CA 94801
Trinity Center Winter Evening Program
1888 Trinity Ave., Walnut Creek, CA 94596
Delta Landing
2101 Loveridge Rd., Pittsburg, CA 94565
Bay Area Rescue Mission
200 Macdonald Ave., Richmond, CA 94801
Contra Costa County says its outreach teams are seeking donations for sleeping bags, gloves, and hats, tarps, and blankets (in order of importance). Donations can be dropped off at 2400 Bisso Lane, Suite D, Concord, CA 94520.
Need Sand Bags?
West County Detention Facility-5555 Giant Highway, Richmond Open 24 hours, 7 days a week. Bring a shovel. Bags are in a large gray plastic trash bin. The sand cradle is on the south side of the facility parking area.
