SPOKANE COUNTY, Wash. — After reports of record high temperatures reaching the 90s to low 100s, Spokane cooling centers at local libraries will be opening Monday to accommodate all vulnerable populations.
According to a statement by the Spokane Homeless Coalition, the high temperature expected for this week meet the required criteria by law to open the centers.
“We encourage residents to take advantage of the public spaces and facilities throughout the City to help them stay cool during this period of extremely hot weather,” Spokane Mayor Nadine Woodward said in a statement. “And we ask people to check on their more vulnerable neighbors who might not have air conditioning.”
Spokane City cooling shelters are activated when the National Weather Service predicts temperatures to be 95 degrees Fahrenheit or higher for two consecutive days or more.
According to the Spokane County Medical Examiner's office, 20 people died from heat-related causes in 2021.
The cooling centers will be available for unsheltered homeless individuals and other vulnerable people who need a place to cool off during high heat temperatures.
Spokane Public Library locations are open seven days a week and provide air-conditioned spaces for residents throughout the city.
Here is a list of local Spokane City libraries offering cooling shelter:
- Shadle Park Library, located at 2111 W. Wellesley Ave.
- Liberty Park Library at 402 S. Pittsburg
- Hillyard Library located at 4110 N. Cook
- Central Library in 906 W. Main Ave.
To check more information about library opening times and locations, visit the Spokane Public Library District website. In addition to libraries, Spokane Parks and Recreation Splash pads are opening from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. at 19 parks, and six pools are open from Mondays through Saturdays at different hours.
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