City Advisory: Extreme Cold Alerts and Essential Service Updates for January 25

Extreme Cold Advisory and Health Safety

The City of Milwaukee Health Department and the National Weather Service have issued a critical Extreme Cold Advisory active through Sunday, January 25, 2026. Dangerously low temperatures and wind chills reaching between -30°F and -40°F are expected throughout the day. These conditions pose a significant risk of frostbite and hypothermia within minutes of exposure. Residents are strongly urged to limit outdoor activity, dress in multiple layers of loose-fitting clothing, and monitor vulnerable neighbors, particularly the elderly and those with limited heating resources.

Extended Warming Center Operations

In response to the current weather emergency, several winter warming locations have extended their hours of operation through Sunday afternoon to provide a safe environment for those experiencing housing instability. Please note the following site-specific hours for today, January 25:

• St. Ben's Parish (930 W. State St.): Open all day for individuals in need of warmth and meals.
• Guest House of Milwaukee (1216 N. 13th St.): Open for men only until 12:00 PM today.
• Unity Lutheran Church (1025 E. Oklahoma Ave.): Open for singles until 12:00 PM today.
• Milwaukee Rescue Mission (830 N. 19th St.): Please call 414-935-0240 to confirm current capacity before arrival.

For immediate assistance with transportation to a shelter or for a full list of community-based warming sites, residents should call 211 or text their zip code to 898-211.

Winter Parking and DPW Service Impacts

The Department of Public Works (DPW) reminds residents that standard overnight parking permits and temporary permissions are not required on Sunday mornings between 2:00 a.m. and 6:00 a.m. However, due to the arrival of Winter Storm Fern, residents must remain vigilant for the declaration of a Snow Emergency. If an emergency is declared, all vehicles must move to the correct side of the street by 10:00 p.m. to facilitate plowing operations. Additionally, due to the recent extreme cold, some non-emergency services like garbage and recycling collection were delayed earlier this weekend; residents whose collections were missed are asked to leave their carts at the normal collection point for pickup tomorrow, Monday, January 26.

Property Tax and Infrastructure Notices

The City Treasurer’s Office reminds all property owners that the deadline for the full 2025 property tax payment or the first installment is Saturday, January 31, 2026. While City Hall offices are closed today, taxpayers are encouraged to use the online payment portal at the City Treasurer’s website or use the 24-hour drop box at City Hall. Furthermore, Milwaukee Water Works has issued a public service announcement regarding frozen pipes. To prevent internal plumbing damage during this cold snap, residents are advised to let a thin stream of water run from their faucets and ensure that water meters in unheated basements are properly insulated.