South Sound cooling centers set to open as region prepares for soaring temperatures
Say goodbye to typical summertime temperatures and get ready for some major heat.
The warmest temperatures of the year are about to arrive in South Sound, according to the National Weather Service in Seattle.
Cooling centers will open in Tacoma and in Lacey as a result to help area residents beat the heat.
It all begins Monday, when high temperatures will first hit the 90s in Olympia, said meteorologist Jacob Deflitch. Temperatures will begin to ramp up quickly, peak about mid week then ease off a bit going into the weekend.
Tacoma can expect highs in the upper 80s on Monday, the mid 90s Tuesday and Wednesday and the low 90s Thursday and Friday before falling into the mid 80s for the weekend, Deflitch said.
Overnight temperatures will remain in the 60s, he said.
The Olympia area will show a similar weather pattern, although on Tuesday highs are expected to touch 99 degrees, making it the hottest day of the week, Deflitch said. The Olympia area also can expect some low clouds in the morning that will burn off quickly, he said.
Some places residents can visit if it gets too hot:
▪ The city of Tacoma opened a cooling center for all residents from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday at the Lighthouse Activity Center, 5016 A St. The center can accommodate 50 people at a time and is open to walk-ins on a first-come, first-served basis, according to the city. It will be open daily to all Tacoma residents until temperatures are less than 90 degrees.
▪ The city of Lacey, in partnership with Senior Services for South Sound, will open a cooling center targeted for seniors from 8:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday at the Virgil S. Clarkson Senior Center, 6757 Pacific Ave. SE. The city reminds residents that space is limited, and to bring their own water and snacks. Pets, such as cats and dogs are allowed, if carried in a crate.
Other tips to stay cool:
▪ Stay in the shade.
▪ Drink water (people and pets).
▪ Plan trips to places with air conditioning, including libraries and grocery stores.
▪ Keep the house cool. Shut windows and blinds during the day, and open windows and use fans to cool the house once the temperature outside cools.
This story was originally published July 24, 2022 at 1:38 PM with the headline "South Sound cooling centers set to open as region prepares for soaring temperatures."
