Prince George’s County Activates Warming Centers Amid Winter Storm Fern

Prince George’s County activated emergency warming centers after Winter Storm Fern delivered dangerously low temperatures, creating hazards for residents without reliable home heating. County officials and the Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission announced the action on January 25, 2026 to ensure immediate shelter and support for people at risk.

Designated locations were staffed from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., with overnight shelter available at select sites. The county listed the Comfort Inn in Beltsville, Rollingcrest–Chillum Community Center in Chillum, Country Inn & Suites in North Capitol Heights, Prince George’s Sports and Learning Complex in Landover, Fairfield Inn & Suites in Clinton, and Suitland Community Center in Forestville. Rollingcrest–Chillum was designated to remain open 24 hours until further notice. Residents in need of overnight placement were directed to call the 24/7 Shelter Hotline at 1-888-731-0999.

The warming centers are intended specifically for residents without heat or those otherwise unable to safely remain in their homes during the storm. Staffed sites provide a place to warm up, access basic shelter services, and connect with county support for more durable assistance. The announcement urged residents to use the county Winter Weather Hub for ongoing updates on openings and conditions.

The response reflects routine interagency coordination in Prince George’s County during extreme weather. The partnership between the county government and M-NCPPC mobilized hotels, community centers, and the county’s sports and learning complex to offer distributed shelter points across neighborhoods that include Beltsville, Chillum, North Capitol Heights, Landover, Clinton, and Forestville. Local access to shelter reduces travel time for residents without a vehicle and helps county emergency services manage demand during a high-volume period.

For residents who rely on shared heating systems, mobility support, or community networks, the centers provide immediate relief and a point of contact for additional services. Cold exposure is particularly dangerous for older adults, people with chronic medical conditions, and unhoused neighbors; the county’s activation of warming centers aims to reduce those risks while crews respond to weather-related disruptions.

As Winter Storm Fern moves through the region and temperatures remain low, Prince George’s County officials advised residents to monitor the Winter Weather Hub for status changes and to call the shelter hotline for overnight placement. The centers give residents a short-term refuge during the cold snap and a direct link to county services as recovery and restoration efforts continue.