New Haven Register (New Haven, CT)
New Haven, West Haven open cooling centers
NEW HAVEN — With particularly warm temperatures in the forecast, the city will open cooling centers through Friday, according to Emergency Management Director Rick Fontana.
Fontana noted in an email that the National Weather Service has issued a heat advisory for New Haven through at least 8 p.m. Thursday.
“Be sure to use situational awareness for any possible heat exposure to elderly, children, individuals with chronic medical problems, and of course pets on hot pavement.
Please be sure to drink plenty of water, wear loose fitting clothing, and stay out of direct sun light when possible,” Fontana said.
“For any heat related emergencies, please call 911.”
Those seeking a place to beat the heat also can visit one of the city’s four library branches, which will serve as cooling centers, Fontana said.
The Ives Library, 133 Elm St., will be open from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m; the Mitchell and Wilson libraries, at 37 Harrison St. and 303 Washington Ave., respectively, will be open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; the Fair Haven Library at 182 Grand Ave. will be open from noon to 8 p.m., Fontana said.
According to the NWS, a heat advisory “is issued when the combination of heat and humidity is expected to make it feel like it is 95 to 99 degrees for two or more consecutive days, or 100 to 104 degrees for any length of time.”
The heat index is expected to be in the mid to upper 90s through Thursday evening, the NWS said early Wednesday.
Mayor Justin Elicker noted the city would continue to monitor the weather and provide information as warranted.
“Heatwaves can produce many heat related health issues, and this can happen quickly to those with underlying medical conditions.
Stay hydrated and in cooler locations when possible,” Elicker said in an alert to the community Wednesday. “Call 911 for any heat related emergency.“
West Haven also opened a cooling center at its library for Wednesday and Thursday, according to Michael Walsh, public relations information coordinator with the city.
The main library at 300 Elm St. will be open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday, Walsh said.
“The center is for anyone who needs respite from the heat,” said Walsh. “Face masks are required, and no food or beverages are served.”