Cool Centers will open early ahead of heat wave
Due to extreme temperatures this week, Riverside County is asking that Cool Centers open early; as early as June 1, if possible. County officials said that all Cooling Centers should be open by Friday, June 3.
The National Weather Service issued an excessive heat watch for the weekend as desert temperatures will soar 10 to 20 degrees above normal.
There are several facilities located within the Coachella Valley this year.
The cool centers will be open to the public at no cost. The centers will be available through Oct. 15 as temperatures warrant.
Some of the centers weren’t ready to open two weeks early due to a lack of supplies, such as water, but Jose Arballo with the Riverside County Health Department said the county is busy making sure that all facilities are stocked up by Friday.
“Some of our friends and neighbors may not have access to cooler conditions during the warm summer months. We want residents to be able to escape the extreme heat and high temperatures. The cool centers offer safety and comfort for residents and visitors throughout Riverside County,” said Brenda Salas Freeman, executive director of the Community Action Partnership of Riverside County.
