Denver’s MLK Day Marade is rescheduled due to extreme cold, with safety measures in place for attendees
Denver: This weekend’s arctic blast is bringing some seriously frigid temperatures, which means the 41st annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Marade is getting a bit of a makeover.
On Monday, it’s expected to be just 1 degree at 10 a.m., but with the wind chill, it’ll feel like a bone-chilling 12 degrees below zero. Yikes!
To keep everyone safe, the organizers have pushed back the start time by half an hour and shortened the programs at City Park and Civic Center. They want to limit how long folks are out in that cold.
They’re also advising seniors, small kids, pets, and anyone with health issues to stay home this year. Better safe than sorry, right?
The march is still set to kick off at 10:45 a.m. after the opening ceremony, but they’re still deciding if the Dr. King Legacy Bike Ride will go on.
In light of the weather, the organizers suggest that people can honor Dr. King by volunteering at local non-profits or checking in on neighbors and seniors.
If you’re planning to brave the cold, here are some tips: dress in layers, wear a hat, and opt for mittens instead of gloves. A windbreaker is a must with that wind chill!
Stay hydrated with warm drinks, cover your mouth to protect your lungs, and keep dry. It’s also smart to bring hand and foot warmers and watch out for signs of frostbite or hypothermia.
If you’re driving, make sure your car is ready for winter—check the tire pressure and antifreeze levels.
The organizers are teaming up with local partners to hand out warmers at the event, and the Denver Mayor’s office will provide warm drinks while supplies last.
Warming shelters will be set up at a few locations, including the Carla Madison Recreation Center and Church in the City, so you can warm up if needed.
Last year, they faced similar weather issues, with temperatures dropping to 19 degrees below zero. Let’s hope for better weather next time!
