Today I saw a Cooling Center and decided to cool off and find out more.
It turns out that New York City opens Cooling Centers during extreme heat waves, when the National Weather Service issues a heat advisory, typically on days when the temperature (heat index) is expected to be 35°C (95°F) or higher for two days in a row, or 37.8°C (100°F) or higher at any given time.
The Heat Index takes into account not just the temperature, but how it feels, taking into account humidity and other factors.
You can simply come there to cool off. This is especially important for those who don’t have air conditioning at home or whose air conditioning isn’t working properly: elderly people, families with small children, and people with health issues. Incidentally, some locations are pet-friendly, meaning pets are allowed, but the rules vary by location. Service animals are always allowed.
Typically, these cooling centers are located in libraries, community centers, senior centers, or other city-owned and partnered facilities.
The map is available at finder.nyc.gov/coolingcenters/locations.
Stay Cool!
