Cooling Centers Not Ready To Open In Triple Digit Heat

With temperatures rising in the Coachella Valley, Riverside County is preparing to open cool centers for residents without air conditioners.

The cool centers won’t open until June 15, although triple digit temperatures could arrive as soon as this afternoon.

The facilities will open when the temperature is expected to reach 100 degrees three days in a row, said Danyte Mockus of the Riverside County Department of Public Health.

The opening of the centers will be prompted by heat warnings issued by the Department of Public Health, Mockus said.

The DPH reminded residents to be mindful of signs of heat distress, such as headaches, dizziness, muscle weakness or cramps and nausea or vomiting, and drink plenty of water to prevent dehydration.

The Department of Public Health also recommends avoiding direct sunlight, closing blinds or curtains to minimize the heat and visiting malls, libraries or restaurants to stay cool.

Children, the elderly, disabled persons or animals should never be left inside unattended vehicles.