LITTLE ROCK – In anticipation of bitterly cold weather and the likelihood of winter precipitation, the City of Little Rock will open a 24-hour emergency shelter at the East Little Rock Community Center starting Saturday evening.

The shelter will open starting at 6 p.m. Saturday, and it will remain open as needed through the weekend and into early next week. East Little Rock Community Center is located at 2500 E. Sixth St.

The Van, a Little Rock-based nonprofit, will operate the shelter and will pick up individuals in need of transportation to the shelter. To request transportation, residents may call (501) 955-3444 starting Saturday.

A strong cold front is expected to push into Arkansas beginning late on Saturday and into Sunday. Dangerously cold temperatures are expected, and there is potential for a winter storm Sunday night and Monday.

“As we prepare for the extremely cold weather and the possibility of winter precipitation, we want to make sure residents have a safe, warm place to stay. East Little Rock Community Center will be open beginning Saturday night for anyone who needs shelter,” said Little Rock Mayor Frank Scott, Jr. “We are grateful for our partnership with The Van and for the City staff, volunteers and community partners who work to help our friends and neighbors during winter weather events.”

In addition, the City of Little Rock’s Public Works Department is preparing for the possibility of wintry precipitation starting Sunday. The City has a full supply of sand and salt mixture if needed for City streets, and both large and small trucks are fitted with spreaders and plows.

Little Rock Animal Services is reminding pet owners to consider moving outdoor pets indoors during periods of extreme cold. If that is not possible, then dogs should have dry, warm bedding inside a weatherproof doghouse. Outdoor cats should have proper shelter. Water should be clean and changed out regularly to prevent freezing.

Animal Services and the Little Rock Police Department will respond to complaints about animals not being properly cared for during a winter weather event.