Detroit Opens Cooling Centers Amid Extreme Heat Warning Through July 3

Extreme Heat Triggers Extension of Cooling Centers in Detroit

As a scorching heatwave grips Detroit, city officials have extended the availability of cooling centers to offer residents a refuge from the heat. The National Weather Service has issued an Extreme Heat Warning for the area, predicting heat index values that could pose a danger to public health through Friday, July 3, at 8 p.m.

To counteract the heat, the Detroit Health Department, in collaboration with the Parks and Recreation Department, has designated several recreation centers as cooling centers. These will remain open on Friday, July 3, during specified hours, while other centers will be closed for the July 4 holiday.

Patton Recreation Center (2301 Woodmere St., Detroit, MI 48209)—Open Friday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Farwell Recreation Center (2711 E. Outer Drive, Detroit, MI 48234)—Open Friday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Williams Recreation Center (8431 Rosa Parks, Detroit, MI 48206)—Open Friday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Additionally, the Detroit Public Library’s Main Library, located at 5201 Woodward Ave., will operate as a cooling and respite location from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Friday. Other branches will remain closed in observance of the holiday, with detailed hours available at detroitpubliclibrary.org/locations.

In response to the heat, Mayor Sheffield has issued an executive order for city departments to prioritize public safety and resource distribution during this period. Chief Public Health Officer and Director Ali Abazeed emphasized the need for precaution, stating, “We are extending access to cooling centers through Friday to ensure everyone has a safe place to find relief during this dangerous heat wave. Stay hydrated, avoid prolonged exposure to the sun, and check on neighbors who may be at higher risk.”

During these extreme temperatures, the Detroit Health Department advises residents to stay well-hydrated, limit outdoor activities, and take breaks in air-conditioned environments. Signs of heat-related illnesses such as dizziness, nausea, and heavy sweating should not be ignored. Those experiencing severe symptoms like confusion or very high body temperatures should seek medical attention immediately. Checking on vulnerable individuals, including the elderly and those with chronic conditions, is also strongly recommended.

For further safety information, visit detroitmi.gov/DHSEM and search for “severe weather.” For details on heat-related illness symptoms and when to seek help, refer to the CDC’s guidelines.

Other Resources

Those at risk of homelessness or currently without shelter can contact the Detroit Housing Resource HelpLine at 866-313-2520.

Additional Support

If facing domestic violence, reach out to Michigan’s Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-866-864-2338. For mental health emergencies, call 9-8-8 or the Detroit Wayne Integrated Health Network’s 24-Hour Helpline at 1-800-241-4949.