Despite a brief period of cloudy weather, Wake County is preparing for a rise in temperatures that could reach dangerous levels. In response, the county has announced the reopening of temporary cooling stations until at least Monday, July 21. This measure aims to help residents stay safe and cool during the heatwave.
“Temperatures this high can be dangerous for anyone,” said Darshan Patel, operations manager for Wake County Emergency Management. “It’s important to find ways to keep cool during the hottest parts of the day, either by visiting a cooling station or taking a break in another air-conditioned space.”
The cooling stations will operate from Wednesday, July 16 through Monday, July 21. Closing times for libraries may vary, so visitors are advised to check online or contact their local library for specific information.
Sites not typically open to the public, such as EMS stations, fire stations, and county fleet maintenance buildings, will not serve as cooling stations.
Certain groups are at higher risk during extreme heat conditions. These include adults over 65 years old, children under four years old, individuals with existing medical conditions, and those without access to air conditioning. Residents are advised to drink plenty of water and avoid sun exposure. Checking on neighbors who might be at high risk is also recommended to ensure they have access to necessary heat relief and hydration.
Residents are further encouraged never to leave children or pets alone in closed vehicles during these hot days.
