The City of Muscatine is urging all residents to take immediate precautions as an Extreme Cold Warning is in effect from midnight Thursday through noon Friday, with wind chills potentially dropping as low as –35°F across Muscatine County. An incoming Arctic air mass is expected to bring life‑threatening cold, strong winds, and increased risk of home‑heating fires.
A Cold Weather Advisory will be in effect from noon Friday, January 23, through noon Saturday, January 24. Frigid wind chills as low as –25°F expected.
Severe Weather Conditions Expected
According to the National Weather Service, dangerously low temperatures and wind chills will impact the region beginning late Thursday. The coldest period is expected overnight Thursday into Friday morning, with conditions remaining hazardous through Saturday.
Residents should prepare now for prolonged exposure to extreme cold, potential heating system strain, and increased fire risk.
Key Safety Guidance for All Residents
“Extreme cold is one of the most dangerous weather conditions we face each year,” said Mike Hartman, Muscatine Fire Chief. “We urge residents to take heating safety seriously and check on vulnerable neighbors. Preparation is key. Please make sure your home is ready, your heating equipment is safe, and your family has a plan.”
Home Heating & Fire Safety
- Keep space heaters at least 3 feet from anything flammable.
- Plug heaters directly into wall outlets, not power strips.
- Never leave heating devices unattended.
- Test smoke and carbon monoxide alarms.
- Do not use ovens or stoves for heat.
- The Muscatine Fire Department emphasizes that heating equipment remains a leading cause of winter house fires nationwide.
Cold Exposure Prevention
- Limit time outdoors; frostbite can occur in minutes at these temperatures.
- Wear multiple layers, including insulated gloves, hats, and face coverings.
- Check on elderly neighbors, individuals with disabilities, and those living alone.
- Keep pets indoors as much as possible.
Travel & Vehicle Preparedness
- Use caution when travelling outside. Wear appropriate clothing, a hat, and gloves.
- Avoid unnecessary travel during the coldest periods.
- Keep a winter emergency kit in your vehicle (blankets, water, flashlight, phone charger).
- Ensure your vehicle battery, tires, and fluids are winter‑ready.
Warming Options
If your home becomes unsafe or loses heat, residents are encouraged to seek shelter with family, friends, or designated warming locations.
In Muscatine, the primary resources for warming during extreme cold are the Muscatine Center for Social Action (MCSA) and The Salvation Army, both offering emergency shelter, food, and support, while the Jesus Mission also serves as a key location, though it’s essential to call ahead or check their social media for current operational status and hours as these centers activate during severe weather events.
- Muscatine Center for Social Action (MCSA): Provides overnight housing for men, women, and families (312 Iowa Avenue) with 24/7 check-in for emergency housing and access to food/clothing.
- The Salvation Army: Opens as a warming center during cold snaps, offering meals and a place to get warm (1000 Oregon Street).
- Jesus Mission: Also serves as a warming center (509 Mulberry Avenue) and is a critical resource during emergencies.
- Call Ahead: Always best to call MCSA (563-263-7525) or The Salvation Army (563-263- Muscatine) to confirm they are open as warming centers, as this is weather-dependent.
- MCSA Website/Facebook: Visit mcsaiowa.org or their Facebook page for updates on housing and services.
City & Emergency Services Preparedness
Muscatine Fire, Police, and Public Works departments are coordinating to ensure rapid response to weather‑related emergencies. Crews are prepared for increased call volume related to heating issues, frozen pipes, and weather‑related incidents.
Stay Informed – Residents should monitor:
- City of Muscatine website & social media for local updates
- National Weather Service – Quad Cities for real‑time weather alerts
- Local news outlets for closures, warming center announcements, and emergency notices
- Winter weather safety tips are available from the National Weather Service at: https://www.weather.gov/safety/winter
If your business is closing or opening later due to the extreme cold, let your customers know on Voice of Muscatine’s Closings & Delay page.
