Washingtoner - Spokane: Cooling Resources Available During Predicted Extreme Heat

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~ As temperatures continue to rise in the region, the City of Spokane is reminding all residents that cooling resources are available to them. According to the Spokane Municipal Code, cooling centers will be activated when the National Weather Service predicts temperatures of 95 degrees or higher for two consecutive days.

The city has designated several locations as cooling areas for those seeking relief from the heat. These include all Spokane Public Library locations and the Trent Resource and Assistance Center (TRAC). The libraries, which include Central, Shadle Park, Liberty Park, Hillyard, South Hill Library, and Indian Trail branches, will be open during regular hours on weekdays and will extend their hours on weekends from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.

For those in need of additional resources during heat waves, TRAC offers industrial fans, meals, hydration resources, and snacks. The facility also provides comprehensive wrap-around services for those seeking shelter.

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In terms of transportation options to these cooling areas, Spokane Transit Authority (STA) will offer fare exceptions for riders traveling to and from a cooling space when temperatures reach 95 degrees or above. If a passenger indicates they are traveling to a cooling area and do not have fare payment, they will be allowed to ride for free. This policy also applies for same-day return trips during evening hours even after temperatures drop below 95 degrees. Most STA routes have access to these cooling areas.

The Salvation Army also offers vans that can transport individuals in need of shelter to local shelters. Those in need can call 509-280-6860 or 509-280-6894 for a ride.

Residents can also take advantage of free splash pads and pools throughout the city. Splash pads are operational daily from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. at 19 parks while the city's six aquatic centers offer free open swimming Mondays through Saturdays from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m., with evening open swim available at rotational pools. The schedule and free Splash Pass can be found at SpokaneParks.org/aquatics.

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For a comprehensive list of regional cooling resources, including an interactive map of drinking fountains, cooling areas, splash pads, parks, and pools, residents can visit Gonzaga University's Center for Climate, Society and the Environment.

The City of Spokane also offers additional resources and information through My Spokane 311, the City's Emergency Management page, 211, the City's Hazard Sheltering page, Spokane Regional Health District, and the Spokane Homeless Coalition.

In light of the extreme heat advisory issued by the National Weather Service, the City of Spokane will not shut off access to utilities for lack of payment as per a newly-enacted state law.

Residents are urged to take precautions during this heat wave by staying hydrated, wearing light-colored clothing, applying sunscreen, and never leaving children or pets in vehicles. The city will continue to monitor information from the National Weather Service and respond accordingly according to its Emergency Management protocols.

Filed Under: Government, City

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