Hartford Opens Cooling Centers as Heat and Humidity Grip Region

HARTFORD, CT — The City of Hartford is opening cooling centers across the city through Sunday as forecasters predict a stretch of hot and humid weather with temperatures expected to reach the upper 90s.

City officials announced Thursday that cooling centers would open beginning at 10 a.m. June 11 and remain available through 6 p.m. on Sunday, June 14.

The Hartford Fire Department also began distributing water throughout the city starting at 2 p.m. Thursday.

“The forecast over the next few days calls for temperatures in the high 90s and a lot of humidity, so we are opening our cooling centers to make sure our residents stay safe and cool,” Hartford Mayor Arunan Arulampalam said.

Arulampalam encouraged residents to stay hydrated, avoid prolonged sun exposure during the hottest parts of the day and check on neighbors and family members who may be vulnerable to heat-related illnesses.

“Don’t forget to check in on your loved ones and neighbors, as certain folks are at greater risk for heat-related illnesses than others,” he said.

State emergency guidance recommends drinking more water than usual, avoiding sugary or alcoholic beverages and consuming two to four cups of water per hour while working or exercising outdoors.

Cooling centers will operate at several libraries, senior centers, recreation facilities and community organizations throughout Hartford.

Locations include the Downtown, Albany, Barbour, Camp Field, Dwight, Park Street and Ropkins libraries; the North End Senior Center; the South End Senior and Wellness Center; Center Church; Pope Park Recreation Center; Parker Memorial Center; and Catholic Charities.

Hours vary by location. Several library branches will be closed on portions of the weekend, while community centers and churches will maintain expanded hours.

Residents seeking the most current cooling center information can call 2-1-1.

The cooling centers are scheduled to remain open through 6 p.m. Sunday, June 14.

For a complete list of Hartford cooling center locations and hours, click on this link.

For the State of Connecticut announcement regarding hot weather protocols, click on this link.