The City of St. Louis is preparing for dangerously cold temperatures and the potential for significant winter weather, including snow, sleet, or ice accumulation, based on National Weather Service (NWS) forecasts. A Winter Storm Watch is in effect from late Friday night through Sunday morning, with the possibility of 4 to 6 inches of snow across the region. While some uncertainty remains regarding the storm’s exact track, confidence is increasing that accumulating snowfall could begin Saturday morning and continue through Sunday midday, potentially making travel very difficult.Forecasted temperatures are expected to drop into the single digits overnight, with daytime highs in the teens and 20s, and wind chills falling below zero at times. City agencies join NWS in urging residents to take precautions and preventive measures to protect themselves and their families during extreme conditions. Residents and visitors should stay informed, adjust travel plans as needed, and monitor local media, the City’s website, and City Emergency Management (CEMA) social media channels for updates. Residents are also encouraged to sign up for emergency alerts through NotifySTL.”Now is the time to prepare,” said Gregg Favre, Commissioner of the City Emergency Management Agency (CEMA). “With temperatures dropping into the single digits and the potential for snow or ice this weekend, simple steps today – like checking your heating system, stocking supplies, and planning to limit time outdoors – can make all the difference in keeping you and your loved ones safe.” Health:Cold weather poses serious public health risks. Extreme cold temperatures, along with wind chill, increase the likelihood of frostbite, hypothermia, falls on icy surfaces, home-heating fires, carbon monoxide poisoning, and dangerous travel conditions. Older adults, young children, people with disabilities, and those without stable heat are most at risk. Residents should dress in warm layers, cover exposed skin, limit time outdoors during extreme cold, bring pets inside, and check on neighbors who may need extra help. “Spending extended time outdoors during these conditions poses a risk for anyone,” said Victoria Anwuri, Commissioner of the Department of Health. “Be sure to monitor your friends, family, and loved ones for signs of extreme cold exposure, including shivering, confusion, drowsiness, or bright red and cold skin. If you witness any of this, call 9-1-1.”Unhoused Services:Anyone in need of shelter can call 2-1-1 to connect with available resources, including referral assistance with overnight emergency beds or information on current daytime warming centers. Additional information on daytime warming centers is available on the City’s website. For emergency walk-up services for single men, please contact the Biddle Housing Opportunities Center at 1212 N. 13 St. For emergency services for women and children, please call 2-1-1.”Additional emergency winter beds will be available throughout this e