JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – The City of Jacksonville is activating its Cooling Center Contingency Plan through Sunday, Aug. 16, as the National Weather Service forecasts a heat index of up to 111 degrees across Duval County.
Cooling centers will be available at various City of Jacksonville facilities during normal hours of operation Monday through Saturday. These locations will remain open regardless of whether activation thresholds are met.
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Cooling center locations
The following facilities are available Monday through Saturday:
- All 21 City of Jacksonville public libraries, offering accessible, air-conditioned spaces
- All 20 City of Jacksonville community centers, located throughout multiple neighborhoods
- All 31 City of Jacksonville pools and 18 splash pads, providing immediate cooling relief
On Sunday, Aug. 16, two primary cooling centers will be open from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.:
- Main Library, 303 N. Laura St.
- Legends Center, 5130 Soutel Dr.
Free rides available
Residents can also get free rides to cooling centers through the Jacksonville Transportation Authority on activation days. Riders should let their bus driver know they are headed to a cooling center when boarding.
Tips for staying safe in the heat
City officials are urging residents to take precautions if they have outdoor plans this week. The following tips can help reduce the risk of heat-related illness:
- Avoid peak heat hours. Minimize outdoor activities between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. If time outside is unavoidable, seek shade and take frequent breaks in cooler areas.
- Never leave children or pets in vehicles. Temperatures inside a parked car can rise to dangerous and potentially fatal levels quickly.
- Know the signs of heat exhaustion and heatstroke. Symptoms include dizziness, nausea, rapid heartbeat and confusion. Anyone experiencing these symptoms should move to a cooler environment and seek medical attention immediately.
For more information on Stay Cool Jax, visit Jacksonville.gov/StayCoolJax or JaxReady.com/StayCoolJax for a full list of cooling center locations, hours of operation and available amenities.