BATTLE CREEK, Mich. — Here we go, Battle Creek. A sharp cold snap is expected tonight through the weekend, with overnight temperatures dropping below zero and dangerous wind chills at times. As we head into the coldest stretch, we’re encouraging residents to take a few simple steps to help prevent frozen pipes and water issues.

Protect water lines and meters

Please take a moment to check basements and crawl spaces where water lines and meters are located, and make sure those areas are protected from cold drafts. If pipes or meters are inside cabinets, leaving doors open can help warm air circulate. Pipes near exterior walls or windows are especially vulnerable during extreme cold.
You can find additional guidance in the City of Battle Creek’s Winter Water Check‑In resource.

Outdoor preparation and emergency access

If you still have an outdoor hose attached to a faucet, removing it allows the faucet to drain properly and helps reduce the risk of freezing and basement flooding. If there is a fire hydrant near your home, clearing snow around it helps ensure quick access for emergency crews if needed.

Community cold weather support

During the current stretch of extreme cold weather, two agencies in Battle Creek are offering warm, safe places for anyone who needs shelter.

Warming Shelter

The Haven of Rest Ministries
11 Green Street, Battle Creek, MI 49014
The Haven is operating as a low‑barrier warming shelter, meaning no ID, paperwork or check‑in is required. All are welcome unless there is a prior safety‑related restriction.
Hours and operations include:

• Opens whenever temperatures reach 20 degrees or below
• Currently operating 24 hours a day, seven days a week during extreme cold
• Regular emergency shelters for men, and for women and children, also remain open

Overnight sheltering

Overnight shelter is available at the following locations:

• The Haven of Rest
  11 Green St., Battle Creek, MI 49014 
• The SHARE Center
  120 Grove St., Battle Creek, MI 49037

Stay safe and stay warm.

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