PORTAGE | City officials opened warming centers this past weekend and expect to have to open them again as forecasters are predicting additional snowfalls.

Portage Fire Chief Mike Bucy said the city has established a protocol if residents are in need of a shelter to keep warm.

"The next storm may bring more ice and wind to the area, increasing the chance of power disruptions. Whether these disruptions are short-term or long-term, the city has a plan in place to deal with these problems," Bucy said.

To utilize the city warming centers, call the city's dispatch center at (219) 762-3122. Short-term warming centers will be set up at each of the three city fire stations. The main, long-term center will be at Woodland Park, 2100 Willowcreek Road.

Bucy said the criteria to open the centers will be based on the number of inquires made through the police department.

Over the weekend, a large portion of the city was without power and without heat. Some residents took advantage of the short-term shelters at the fire stations.

As the American Red Cross was preparing the long-term center at the park, much of the power was restored and residents returned home, Bucy said.