The churches on Orcas Island have joined forces to provide an overnight severe weather shelter located in the basement fellowship hall at Orcas Island Community Church, with Benson Hall at Emmanuel Episcopal Church as a back-up. The shelter will be staffed by volunteers from the various congregations and other members of the community.

NOAA forecasts 28-, 36-, and 25-degree nights on Dec. 23, 24 and 25 so the shelter will be open those nights. Guests should plan to arrive between 6 and 9 p.m., and a hot breakfast will be provided. Blankets, sleeping pads and a hot oatmeal breakst will be provided. Doors close on 8:30 a.m.