Central Virginia Braces for Heat Wave: Cooling Centers Ready to Serve

Central Virginia Braces for Heat Wave: Cooling Centers Ready to Serve

As temperatures spike across central Virginia, residents are preparing to stay cool with the help of various cooling centers opening throughout the region.

These centers are crucial for vulnerable populations, including the homeless and elderly, during the summer’s hottest days.

In Richmond, the Salvation Army’s inclement weather shelter on Chamberlayne Avenue is gearing up to serve as a cooling center.

Major Christine Kim highlighted the importance of these centers, particularly in a community with a high homeless population transitioning from winter shelters.

The center will accommodate up to 100 individuals aged 18 and older from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., with provisions to extend hours if temperatures remain high past 9 p.m.

Other municipalities in central Virginia are also mobilizing resources to combat the heat. Chesterfield County, for instance, will keep all public library locations open until 6 p.m. on Saturday, and specific branches like Ettrick-Matoaca and North Courthouse Road will extend hours on Sunday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

In Richmond City, additional cooling options include the Department of Social Services locations at Marshall Plaza and Southside Plaza, open from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday until Labor Day if temperatures exceed 92 degrees.

According to the source, many of the city’s libraries will also serve as cooling stations, offering relief throughout the week.

Henrico County provides several recreation centers as cooling stations, including Belmont, Deep Run, Dorey, and Eastern Henrico.

These centers will offer respite during operational hours, ensuring residents have a place to cool down amidst the summer heat.

Petersburg residents can find relief at a comfort station located inside the Transit Station on West Washington Street, open from Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Goochland County is also stepping up with three locations, including the Goochland Branch Library, Goochland Sports Complex, and GoochlandCares, offering cooling options throughout the weekend.

As temperatures continue to rise, these cooling centers play a vital role in ensuring the well-being of residents across central Virginia.

It’s important for individuals to stay hydrated and seek shelter during peak heat hours to avoid heat-related illnesses.

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