Springfield Opens Cooling Centers Amid Dangerous Heat

SPRINGFIELD, NJ — With a Heat Advisory in effect and temperatures feeling as hot as 97 degrees, Springfield has opened two cooling centers for residents through Wednesday.

The National Weather Service posted the advisory through 8 p.m. Wednesday, citing heat indexes expected to reach 97 degrees.

A Heat Advisory is issued when heat and humidity combined are expected to make it feel like 95 to 99 degrees for two or more consecutive days, or 100 to 104 degrees for any length of time.

Two cooling center locations are available:

Chisholm Community Center, 100 South Springfield Ave., is open Tuesday, May 19 from 8 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. and Wednesday from 8 a.m. to 9:45 p.m.

Springfield Free Public Library, 66 Mountain Ave., is open Monday, Wednesday and Thursday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Tuesday and Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Seniors and those with chronic health or mental health conditions are at heightened risk. Homes without air conditioning can be significantly hotter than outdoor temperatures.

Residents who do not have home air conditioning are urged to seek out cool spaces each day for as long as it remains hot — and for a few days after, if the home is still warm.

Heat stroke is a medical emergency. Anyone overcome by heat should be moved to a cool, shaded location immediately; call 911 if heat stroke is suspected.

Residents are encouraged to check on vulnerable neighbors, friends and family. Those working outdoors should take frequent rest breaks in shaded or air-conditioned environments, per guidance from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration.

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