City urges residents to use cooling sites as heat intensifies
PITTSBURGH — The City of Pittsburgh announced six cooling centers will be open this week as a heat wave raises temperatures into the 90s, offering a daytime refuge for residents without reliable air conditioning. The centers are scheduled to operate 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday.
Officials are encouraging older adults, people with medical conditions, families with young children and anyone who lacks a cool, safe place to go to make use of the sites run by Pittsburgh CitiParks.
- Beechview Healthy Active Living Community Center — 1555 Broadway Ave., 15216
- Greenfield Healthy Active Living Community Center — 745 Greenfield Ave., 15217
- Homewood Healthy Active Living Community Center — 7321 Frankstown Rd., 15208
- Mt. Washington Healthy Active Living Community Center — 122 Virginia Ave., 15211
- Sheraden Healthy Active Living Community Center — 720 Sherwood Ave., 15204
- South Side Healthy Active Living Community Center — 12th & Bingham St., 15203
City representatives noted one site on Mt. Washington is a temporary arrangement while the Carnegie Library there remains closed.
"This location will be a temporary Cooling Center, as the Mt. Washington Carnegie Library is currently closed."
Who should consider a cooling center and what to expect
Cooling centers are intended for people who may be at increased risk from extreme heat, including seniors, people with chronic illnesses, infants and young children, and anyone without sufficient air-conditioned space at home. They provide air-conditioned space and a place to rest during the hottest hours of the day; they are not overnight shelters.
| Days | Hours | Number of sites |
|---|---|---|
| Tuesday–Thursday | 8 a.m.–7 p.m. | 6 |
The federal Centers for Disease Control and local health officials advise limiting strenuous outdoor activity during peak heat, staying hydrated, checking on neighbors and loved ones, and seeking immediate medical help for signs of heat-related illness such as confusion, fainting, rapid breathing or a very high body temperature.
For Pittsburgh residents, the availability of multiple neighborhood sites shortens travel time to a cool space and can be particularly important for communities where home air-conditioning is less common. City transit routes and paratransit services may provide access for people who need transportation; residents should check local schedules and service notices.
As the heat wave unfolds, local agencies including CitiParks and public health departments will continue to monitor conditions and may extend hours or open additional sites if needed. Residents seeking the latest weather updates and information on public services should follow official city announcements and local news outlets.
