Jungnang District Expands Operation of Cold Wave Shelters to 87 Locations

19 Additional Shelters Designated, Including Libraries and Welfare Centers

Jungnang District in Seoul (Mayor Ryu Kyung-gi) announced that it will expand the number of designated cold wave shelters from 68 last year to 87 this year in order to minimize damage to residents caused by severe winter cold.

Ryu Kyung-gi, Mayor of Jungnang District, attending the opening ceremony of the Snow Removal Countermeasures Headquarters (center). Provided by Jungnang District.

This measure aims to ensure sufficient safe spaces for residents vulnerable to cold waves, such as the elderly, homeless individuals, and those living in inadequate housing, as the risk of cold-related harm rises due to rapid drops in temperature and wind chill.

In addition to the 68 existing shelters located in the district office, neighborhood community centers, and senior centers, Jungnang District has newly designated 19 more sites this year, including libraries, welfare centers, sports centers, village vitality centers, and youth centers, bringing the total to 87 cold wave shelters. These shelters are distributed throughout the district, making them easily accessible for residents.

In particular, when a cold wave advisory is issued, the operating hours of cold wave shelters at neighborhood community centers are extended until 9 p.m. on weekdays, allowing residents to freely enter and warm up without any additional procedures.

Additionally, to support residents using public transportation, the district has installed and operates 40 cold shelters at bus stops, 9 smart shelters, and 185 heated seats. For about 4,000 people in health-vulnerable groups, such as those with chronic illnesses and frail elderly residents, the district is strengthening on-site response through both telephone monitoring and in-person visits.

Mayor Ryu Kyung-gi of Jungnang District stated, "This winter, the first snowfall and heavy snow arrived earlier than usual, and cold wave advisories were issued sooner than in previous years. With frequent temperature fluctuations and harsher perceived cold expected, we will strengthen the operation of cold wave shelters and do our utmost to protect vulnerable groups so that all residents can have a warm and safe winter."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.