Seattle, counties open cooling centers, pools to help with record heat

The National Weather Service has issued an Excessive Heat Warning for the Puget Sound as temperatures soar above 100 degrees. City and county officials have opened cooling centers and shelter for those seeking relief.

Seattle area primed for ‘unprecedented record breaking heat’ this weekend

The Seattle Fire Department encouraged people to stay hydrated and not exert a lot of energy, and warned people to not leave children or pets in cars. Additionally, they reminded people that hot weather does not mean warm water in Puget Sound rivers, lakes, and bays. Open bodies of water remain cold and could post dangerous to swimmers. Life jackets are heavily recommended.

In an effort to provide relief, the city of Seattle opened 30 cooling centers, including senior centers, community centers, libraries, day/hygiene, and an emergency shelter.

Eight beaches are staffed with life guards. The city also touted two public pools (Colman and “Pop” Mounger Pool), nine spray parks, 11 wading pools, and 13 air-conditioned libraries that are all open. Get more information about locations and hours here. Senior centers and movie theaters are also good options for cooling off.

Seattle Parks opened three cooling centers:

• International District/Chinatown Community Center (Sunday and Monday 2pm-8pm)
• Northgate Community Center (Saturday and Sunday 2pm-8pm)
• Rainier Beach Community Center (Saturday and Sunday 2pm-8pm)

The city also said utility crews have been working to repair more than 90 public drinking fountains that were damaged or shut-off to reduce the spread of COVID-19.

Seattle is partnering with Pacific Place to provide promotions and space to cool off through Monday.

• AMC: Unlimited popcorn refills through Wednesday, June 30
• AT&T: Buy two accessories, get one free
• Aveda: Free liter of hand and body wash with $125 purchase through Sunday, June 27
• Bezel & Kiln: Free gift with $50 purchase
• Ghost Gallery: 10% off all purchases
• The Handmade Showroom: Free gift with $20 purchase
• Pike Place Chowder: 10% off chilled gazpacho

The city also has air-conditioned day centers for people experiencing homelessness, including a 24/7 shelter at Fischer Pavilion at the Seattle Center.

King County has issued a Stage 1 fire safety burn ban, in effect until further notice. Snohomish County’s burn ban began Friday morning.  Fires in small fire pits are allowed if tended to at all times. The counties say their burn bans apply to unincorporated areas, but many cities have their own burn bans in effect.

King County Department of Natural Resources and Parks’ opened the Weyerhaeuser-King County Aquatic Center and outdoor pool at Cottage Lake Park as good options for cooling off.

Public Health — Seattle and King County has shared tips for how to stay safe during hot weather.

Pierce County also opened several cooling centers over the weekend, including at malls, libraries, and churches. Check here for details.

Metro Parks Tacoma opened 10 splash pads every day from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., starting Saturday. The splash pads were originally supposed to open on Thursday.

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