Emergency Shelter
Storm Response Active. An emergency shelter is open for neighbors whose homes have been impacted by the severe weather. Last updated: August 13, 2026, 9:00 a.m.
Need shelter tonight? The American Red Cross has activated an emergency shelter at the Scioto Southland Community Center. For shelter information, call 1-800-RED CROSS at 1-800-733-2767. If you need help getting to the shelter, call 311 at 614-645-3111.
Open Emergency Shelter
The American Red Cross activated an emergency shelter for neighbors whose homes have been impacted by the severe weather.
For the most current shelter information, including any additional locations that may open, call 1-800-RED CROSS at 1-800-733-2767 or visit American Red Cross Find an Open Shelter.
Getting to the Shelter
If you need help getting to the emergency shelter, call 311 at 614-645-3111. Staff can help connect you with transportation assistance.
COTA bus service is operating. Plan your trip at cota.com or call COTA at 614-228-0030.
Cooling and Charging Sites
If your home is safe to stay in but you are without power, you do not need to go to the emergency shelter. Cooling and device charging sites are open across Columbus.
Columbus Recreation and Parks Community Centers are open from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Residents are welcome to come in, cool off and charge devices. The customer service team is available at 614-645-3337.
Columbus Metropolitan Library locations are also open to help. Many local churches and community centers are open as well.
Find a cooling and charging site near you
What to Bring to a Shelter
If you are going to the emergency shelter, bring what you can. Do not delay leaving an unsafe home to gather items.
Bring if you can: Identification, prescription medications, eyeglasses, phone and charger, a change of clothing, and any items needed for infants or young children. If you use medical equipment, bring it along with any supplies you need.
If you cannot bring these items, come anyway. Shelter staff will work with you.
Check on Your Neighbors
Older adults, people with disabilities, people who live alone, and people with medical equipment that needs power may need help after severe weather.
A knock on the door or a phone call can make a difference. If you check on a neighbor and believe they are in danger or need emergency help, call 911. For a non-emergency welfare check, call 311 at 614-645-3111.
If Your Home Was Damaged
Immediately contact your insurance carrier if you believe your property sustained damage. Document all damage with photos before making repairs when it is safe to do so.
View full property damage guidance
Call 911 for life threatening emergencies, including downed live power lines, structural collapse, fire, or medical emergencies.
Call 311 at 614-645-3111 for all non-emergency storm needs.
Questions about shelter or assistance? Call 311 at 614-645-3111.
Page last updated: August 13, 2026, 9:00 a.m. | Content owners: Mayor's Office / American Red Cross | Publisher: Department of Technology | Shelter status may change. Call 1-800-RED CROSS at 1-800-733-2767 to confirm before traveling.