01/24/2026
McDowell County Emergency Services will open two emergency shelters beginning at 8:00 a.m. on Saturday, January 24th:
General Population Shelter
Glenwood Baptist Church
155 Glenwood Baptist Church Road, Marion
(Adults, children, and small pets welcome)
Special Needs Medical Shelter
McDowell County Senior Center
100 Spaulding Road, Marion
(For individuals dependent on critical medical equipment such as oxygen, ventilators, CPAP machines, and similar devices. Family members are permitted to stay with their loved ones in the Special Needs Shelter)
Both shelters are equipped with emergency generators that can fully power the shelters. This is the reason these sites were selected versus other locations that do not have emergency generators. Residents are asked to bring toiletries, medications, warm clothing, cell phone and charger.
Residents who need transportation to an emergency shelter prior to the storm’s arrival should call 828-559-0744 to request assistance. Transit vans will not run once the winter precipitation begins. Again the emergency shelters will open on Saturday morning at 8:00 a.m.
Residents who have storm related questions or concerns can contact the McDowell County Winter Storm Hotline by calling 828-652-3241.
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Dangerously Cold Temperatures Expected Monday Night:
Brutally cold temperatures are expected to follow the storm, increasing the risk of hypothermia and complicating response and recovery efforts. The forecast currently calls for a low temp of 2 degrees on Monday night. The public is urged to limit travel during the storm, check on neighbors—especially the elderly—and stay informed through official county and weather updates.
Generator Safety Reminder:
Residents using generators during power outages are reminded to operate them safely. Generators should only be used outdoors, at least 20 feet away from homes, and never inside homes, garages, or near windows or doors due to the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. Ensure carbon monoxide detectors are working properly, allow generators to cool before refueling, and never connect a generator directly to a home’s electrical system unless it has been properly installed by a licensed electrician.
Pet Safety Reminder:
Residents are reminded to bring pets indoors during the storm and extreme cold. Ensure pets have adequate food, water, and any necessary medications, and provide warm, dry shelter away from wind and freezing temperatures. Limit pets’ time outdoors, protect their paws from ice and chemicals, and never leave animals unattended in cold conditions.
