Frigid, below-zero temperatures from this weekend’s expected arctic blast have forced organizers to cut back on the 41st annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Marade celebration in Denver.
It will be 1 degree in Denver at 10 a.m. Monday, when the Marade is now scheduled to start, but it will feel closer to 12 degrees below zero with wind chill, National Weather Service forecasters said.
According to a news release from the MLK Jr. Colorado Holiday Commission, Marade organizers pushed back the start time by half an hour and shortened the City Park and Civic Center programs to limit attendees’ exposure time.
Organizers have also asked that seniors, small children, pets and those with medical conditions not attend the event for their own safety.
The march following the opening ceremony at City Park is expected to begin on time at 10:45 a.m. Monday, organizers said. Whether the annual Dr. King Legacy Bike Ride will be canceled remains undecided.
“Due to the weather conditions, individuals who wish to honor Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. in alternative ways can do so by volunteering at a local non-profit, assisting neighbors (and) checking on seniors in your community,” Marade organizers said in the news release.
People who attend the event should:
- Wear layers of loose-fitting, lightweight, warm clothing, and a hat. Wear mittens, snug at the wrist, instead of gloves. Windbreakers are recommended due to anticipated wind chill.
- Drink plenty of fluids and warm/hot drinks.
- Cover their mouths to protect their lungs from extreme cold.
- Try to stay dry and out of the wind.
Bring hand and feet warmers. - Minimize exposed skin and be aware of early signs of frostbite and hypothermia. During the early stage of frostbite, you’ll experience pins and needles, throbbing or aching in the affected area. Your skin will become cold, numb and white, and you may feel a tingling sensation. Warning signs of hypothermia include confusion, shivering, difficulty speaking, sleepiness and sore muscles.
- If driving to the Marade, ensure their vehicle is winter-ready by checking the tire pressure, antifreeze levels and heater.
Marade organizers said the group is working with community partners to secure hand warmers they can distribute at the event. Warm drinks will also be given out by the Denver Mayor’s office at City Park, while supplies last.
Warming shelters will also be available at:
- Carla Madison Recreation Center at 2401 East Colfax;
- Church in the City at 1580 N. Gaylord St.;
- And Pete’s Kitchen at 1926 East Colfax.
The Marade faced similar delays due to weather and safety concerns last year, when 10 mph winds dropped temperatures to 19 degrees below zero.
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