Columbus Opens Cooling Centers as Heat Wave Hits Central Ohio
Columbus, Ohio – As Columbus, Ohio, braces for the first major heat wave of the summer, city officials have announced the opening of five regional cooling centers starting Tuesday, June 24. This move follows forecasts predicting dangerously high temperatures, exceeding 90°F for multiple days.
The Columbus Recreation and Parks Department confirmed in a June 20 press release that cooling centers will be available at select community centers to help residents stay safe and cool during the upcoming extreme heat. Despite the National Weather Service issuing a heat watch from Sunday, June 22 to Wednesday, June 25, the cooling centers won’t open until June 24.
Temperatures are expected to reach highs of 95°F or more, with a heat index up to 105°F, affecting much of Central Ohio and the Eastern U.S., potentially impacting over 170 million Americans.
The following Columbus community centers will be open from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily, starting June 24 until further notice:
- Dodge Community Center – 667 Sullivant Ave.
- Driving Park Community Center – 1100 Rhoads Ave.
- Glenwood Community Center – 1880 Fairmont Ave.
- Linden Community Center – 1350 Briarwood Ave.
- Marion Franklin Community Center – 2801 Lockbourne Road
In addition, all Columbus public pools will waive the $1 entry fee starting June 24, with opening hours from 1 p.m. to 8 p.m. daily. Spray grounds at Barnett, Linden, and Scioto Southland will also be open from noon to 8 p.m., free of charge, for as long as the extreme heat lasts.
Residents are encouraged to stay hydrated, avoid prolonged sun exposure, and make use of these free cooling resources to prevent heat-related illnesses.
Follow Dalmar TV on Facebook for the Latest News
