North Adams, Pittsfield Open Warming Centers

The Berkshire Eagle  reports the county's two cities are opening warming centers Thursday to help residents cope with a blast of Arctic air that is expected to send temperatures into the teens during the day and single digits at night.

The Ralph J. Froio Senior Center, 330 North St. in Pittsfield, has been designated as the official warming center for those seeking relief from the cold, according to a news release from the city of Pittsfield. The center will be open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., and the onsite cafe will have hot coffee, tea and hot chocolate, as well as snacks. Breakfast and lunch will also be available.

To arrange free transportation, call the Senior Center at 413-499-9346.

A second facility — the Berkshire Athenaeum, 1 Wendell Ave. — will also be open from 9 a.m. 9 p.m. to offer refuge from the cold.

For more information about Pittsfield's overnight shelter services, contact Barton's Crossing at 413-442-1445.