PRESS RELEASE JANUARY 23, 2026
Weirton Departments Come Together to Prepare for Winter Storm
WEIRTON — Multiple City of Weirton Departments are working together to coordinate valuable services to area residents in preparation of the winter storm that is predicted to hit the Tri-State Area early Sunday morning.
The Weirton Millsop Community Center (WMCC) will be available as an emergency shelter for area residents who may experience a loss of essential utilities during and after the storm. The shelter will be in operation early Sunday morning as weather conditions worsen, and will remain in service until all needs are met.
"We want lead the way in providing for our citizens during the storm and being prepared for what may lie ahead," Weirton Mayor Dean Harris said.
Most area residents are focused on the potential problems a significant weather event might bring with the area bracing for up to a foot of snowfall, but with temperatures plummeting below zero in the days following the winter storm, the potential for crippling utility outages could have an impact lasting for up to a week after the storm is over.
In addition to WMCC, all of Weirton's Fire Department locations will be open to the public for emergency services. The Weirton Fire Department will be manning facilities at the Fire Headquarters located at 200 Municipal Plaza, the Marland Heights Station at the corner of Euclid and Brightway, Gilson Avenue Fire Station and the County Road Fire Station on West Virginia Route 2 North.
Area residents who are stranded due weather conditions should call 911 so appropriate emergency services can be dispatched. "We're prepared to respond to any emergency situation," Weirton Fire Chief Kevin Himmelrick said. "People in need should call 911 and allow us to respond in an appropriate manner and dispatch the necessary personnel."
Weirton Police Chief Charlie Kush is urging all residents to exercise good judgement during what is potentially a crippling storm. "We are asking people to stay off the roads unless it is an emergency. This is for their safety and the safety of our officers," Kush said.
Weirton officials are asking that all residents remove vehicles from the street and park them in their driveway or garages to clear the roadway for plow trucks and emergency vehicles.
While WMCC is operating as an emergency shelter all regular services and activities will be suspended. For availability of typical parks & recreation services, please call the WMCC customer service desk at (304) 797-8520 and press 1 at the prompt.
