With dangerously high temperatures expected to hit the Lowcountry this weekend, local authorities have opened several cooling centers across Charleston to help residents stay safe during the extreme heat. A heat advisory will be in effect starting Saturday morning, with an extreme heat watch extending through Monday evening. These cooling centers offer a safe, air-conditioned space for people to escape the oppressive heat and avoid heat-related illnesses.
Cooling Centers in Charleston
To help residents stay cool and safe, several cooling centers have been set up throughout the Charleston area. Below is a list of the cooling facilities available for residents to visit:
- WL Stephens Aquatic Center
- Waring Senior Center
- Hurd/Saint Andrews Public Library
- Bees Ferry West Ashley Public Library
- Bees Landing Recreation Complex
- North Charleston Community Resource Center
- Charleston Tennis Center
- West Ashley Public Library
- Herbert Hassell Pool
- Arthur W. Christopher Community Center
- Hope Center
- John L Dart Public Library
- Shaw Community Center
- Main Public Library
- Daniel Island Public Library
- Daniel Island Recreation Center Building
- James Island Recreation Complex
- Lowcountry Senior Center
- Baxter-Patrick James Island Public Library
- John’s Island Public Library
- Summerville Community Resource Center
These centers will provide air conditioning and a cool environment for residents who need relief from the extreme heat. Whether you’re looking for a place to rest, hydrate, or stay safe, these centers are here to help during the heatwave.
Heat Advisory and Extreme Heat Watch
The National Weather Service has issued a heat advisory for several Lowcountry counties starting Saturday morning, as temperatures are expected to soar to dangerously high levels. The extreme heat watch will be in effect from Sunday morning through Monday evening, urging residents to take extra precautions when outside. Prolonged exposure to extreme heat can lead to heat exhaustion, heatstroke, and other health-related issues, so it’s important to stay hydrated and avoid unnecessary outdoor activities.
Precautions During Extreme Heat
When temperatures rise to extreme levels, it is essential to stay safe by following these tips:
Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day, even if you’re not thirsty.
Avoid direct sun exposure: Try to stay indoors during the hottest part of the day (typically between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.).
Wear lightweight clothing: Light-colored, loose-fitting clothes can help keep you cool.
Take frequent breaks: If you must be outside, take frequent breaks in the shade or air conditioning.
Check on vulnerable individuals: Be sure to check on elderly family members, neighbors, or anyone with health concerns.
With the Lowcountry experiencing dangerously high temperatures this weekend, the opening of cooling centers provides much-needed relief for residents. These centers offer a safe haven for those in need of a cool space during the extreme heat. Stay safe and take necessary precautions to protect yourself from heat-related illnesses as the heat advisory and extreme heat watch continue to affect the region.
