Winter In St. Louis
Winter News and Events, Snow routes, Warming Centers, Hazards, Public Health information

Weather and Preparedness

Street & Refuse Services

Winter Events & Activities
Pet Safety
Follow these tips to protect your animals during extreme weather.
The Department of Health urges residents to consider the safety of pets during cold weather. Pets should not be exposed to cold temperatures for extended periods of time.
If kept outdoors, animals are required to have access to adequate shelter, food, and water. Pet owners who fail to provide proper shelter and care for companion animals in extreme temperatures may be charged with cruelty to animals and prosecuted.
Reports can be made to the Citizens' Service Bureau (CSB) as they are the frontline contact for animals left outside, unless they are in direct distress or unresponsive.
If an animal appears to be in distress or is unresponsive, please contact Animal Control immediately at 314-657-1500. If calling after hours or on weekends, please call 314-231-1212.
Operation SPOT is continuing its "Free Straw for Warm Paws" program this year, and the Animal Care Center has straw on hand for residents. It is available at 2801 Clark Avenue, during normal business hours – 10am-5pm Monday-Sunday.
Hazards
Stay aware of potentially hazardous weather by subscribing to receive emergency alerts from the City Emergency Management Agency. Text STLCEMA to 888777.
The CDC's website has information on preventing and treating cold-related conditions such as:
Also available are:
- instructions on keeping safe in extreme cold (tips on dressing warmly, preparing your car, and much more),
- keeping food safe in a power outage , and
- winter power outage help
You can also review the City of St. Louis Health Department's Severe Weather page and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s severe cold weather tips .
Avoid Injury
To help avoid injury when walking on ice and snow, we offer these simple tips:
- Walk slowly and deliberately and wear boots or other slip-resistant footwear.
- Be prepared for black-ice formation after melting occurs.
- Exercise caution when getting in and out of vehicles.
- Watch for slippery floors when entering buildings.
- Avoid carrying items. Keep hands empty so arms are free to move for stabilization. Use backpacks if possible.
Finding Shelter
Shelter beds and other outreach activities may be extended during extreme weather situations. During these times, individuals or families seeking shelter should please contact the following agencies:
- St. Louis Housing Helpline: (314) 802-5444
- United Way: Call 211
- Biddle Housing Opportunities Center: (314) 612-1675, 1212 N. 13th St., St. Louis, MO 63106