San Diego activates inclement weather shelter program ahead of storm, adding overnight beds across three sites

Additional overnight shelter capacity will be available during forecasted cold, rain and high winds

San Diego has activated its inclement weather shelter program ahead of an incoming storm system expected to bring periods of rain, gusty winds and the potential for thunderstorms across San Diego County. The activation is intended to provide short-term, overnight shelter options for people experiencing homelessness when weather conditions create heightened health and safety risks.

The city’s activation criteria are tied to temperature and precipitation thresholds. The inclement weather shelter program is generally triggered when temperatures fall below 50 degrees with at least a 40% chance of rain, or when temperatures are 45 degrees or lower regardless of rain probability. Shelters can also be activated during exceptional weather events, including when an inch or more of rain falls in a 24-hour period or during sustained high winds.

Where beds are available and how to access them

When activated, the program expands capacity through three participating locations in the downtown area. Beds are offered on a first-come, first-served basis, and people can go directly to the locations to seek a spot. Operational details vary by site, including check-in and check-out times.

• Joan Kroc Center (1501 Imperial Ave.): Up to 61 adults, plus 11 additional beds designated for families with minor children and/or single women; check-in begins at 4 p.m. and continues until full; check-out at 5 a.m.
• Paul Mirabile Center (1501 Imperial Ave.): Up to 62 adults; check-in begins at 4 p.m. and continues until full; check-out at 5 a.m.
• Living Water Church of the Nazarene (1550 Market St.): Up to 28 adults; on-site reservations available from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.; check-in at 8 p.m. for those with reservations; check-out at 6:30 a.m.

Service providers typically supply basic overnight accommodations such as a place to sleep indoors and protection from rain and cold. Most sites operate as evening-to-morning facilities, requiring guests to leave early the next day so locations can return to daytime operations.

County program differs from city shelter activation

Separately from the city’s site-based shelter activation, San Diego County also operates an inclement weather program focused on hotel and motel vouchers for people experiencing homelessness in activated unincorporated areas. Voucher availability is limited and distributed on a first-come, first-served basis within the areas covered during an activation.

Inclement weather shelter activations are designed to reduce exposure-related dangers during storms, including cold-related illness and risks associated with prolonged wet conditions.

City-contracted outreach teams typically increase engagement during storm periods, notifying unsheltered residents about available beds and encouraging relocation from flood-prone areas such as river channels and low-lying corridors.