SPOKANE, Wash. – With high temperatures expected soon, the City of Spokane has announced free resources to help residents cool down.
Cooling areas have been established throughout Spokane in compliance with the Spokane Municipal Code, which mandates the activation of cooling centers when the National Weather Service forecasts temperatures of 95 degrees or higher for two consecutive days.
Residents seeking relief from the heat can visit Spokane Public Library locations or the Trent Resource and Assistance Center (TRAC):
– Central (906 W. Main St.)
– Shadle Park (2111 W. Wellesley Ave.)
– Liberty Park (402 S. Pittsburg St.)
– Hillyard (4110 N. Cook St.)
– South Hill Library (3324 S. Perry St.)
– Indian Trail (4909 W. Barnes Road)
Regular weekday hours will be observed at all libraries, with extended hours at the Central Library on weekends (Saturday and Sunday, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.).
TRAC, located at 4320 East Trent Avenue, offers surge capacity starting Sunday, providing industrial fans, meals, hydration resources, snacks, and comprehensive services.
Public transportation options through Spokane Transit Authority include fare exceptions for riders traveling to and from cooling spaces during extreme heat.
Additional cooling options include splash pads and pools at various parks, operational daily from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Free open swimming is available at aquatic centers Mondays through Saturdays from 1 to 4 p.m., with evening sessions at rotational pools. Visit SpokaneParks.org/aquatics for schedules and to sign up for a free Splash Pass.
For those in need of transportation to shelters, The Salvation Army offers assistance via vans (call 509-280-6860 or 509-280-6894).
Further cooling resources and information are available through:
– My Spokane 311
– City’s Emergency Management page
– 211
– City’s Hazard Sheltering page
– Spokane Regional Health District
– Spokane Homeless Coalition
– Gonzaga University’s Center for Climate, Society, and the Environment
Under new state law, utility shutoffs are prohibited during extreme heat advisories issued by the National Weather Service.
Residents are advised to stay hydrated, wear light clothing, apply sunscreen, and never leave children or pets unattended in vehicles. The City will continue to monitor weather conditions and adjust emergency protocols as needed.
