Kirstin Davis - (509) 625-7773
Saturday, July 23, 2022 at 8:23 p.m.
National Weather Service Spokane (NWS Spokane) is issuing an ‘Excessive Heat Watch’ for the Spokane area from Tuesday morning through Friday evening. As of today, afternoon temperatures will reach the upper 90s to over 100 degrees during that period. Overnight temperatures will have a harder time cooling off the longer the heatwave lasts.
“We encourage residents to take advantage of the public spaces and facilities throughout the City to help them stay cool during this period of extremely hot weather,” says Spokane Mayor Nadine Woodward. “And we ask people to check on their more vulnerable neighbors who might not have air conditioning.”
Spokane Public Library locations are open seven days a week and provide an air-conditioned space for residents throughout the City. Hours include Mon.-Thur. 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., Fri.-Sat. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sun. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Spokane Parks & Recreation splash pads and pools are great places to cool down for free. Splash pads are operational from 9 a.m. – 8 p.m. at 19 parks, and six pools are open Mondays – Saturdays at varied hours.
Next week, Riverfront Park will have water misters on the Numerica Skate Ribbon for those out enjoying their wheels, and a water bottle filling station will be in the park. The public amenities in the park can offer indoor places to cool down while visiting; for daily hours, please visit the Riverfront calendar.
Extreme heat significantly increases the potential for heat related illnesses, particularly for those working or participating in outdoor activities. Residents without air conditioners will experience a build-up of heat within their home through late in the week. This high-risk heat can be especially problematic for those who are heat sensitive and those without effective cooling and/or adequate hydration.
Children and seniors, the homeless, people with chronic illnesses, and people who take certain medications, such as blood pressure medications and even antihistamines, are especially at risk for problems with high summer temperatures.
Spokane Regional Health District offers guidance for extreme heat as well as outdoor activities on their website.
The City continues to monitor the National Weather Service Spokane information and will respond according to the level of severity designated in its Emergency Management protocols as conditions change.
