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Jacksonville Opens Cooling Centers Amid Extreme Heat Watch
29 Jul
Summary
- Jacksonville activates cooling centers due to extreme heat watch.
- Heat index is expected to reach up to 113 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Free bus rides are available to cooling centers on activation days.
The City of Jacksonville is implementing its Cooling Center Contingency Plan on Wednesday, July 30, 2026, as the National Weather Service has issued an Extreme Heat Watch for Duval County. Residents can expect heat index values to soar as high as 113 degrees Fahrenheit during the watch period, which is scheduled from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Various city facilities, including 21 public libraries, 20 community centers, 31 pools, and 18 splash pads, will be open as cooling centers. These locations will remain accessible during their regular operating hours, Monday through Saturday, irrespective of whether specific heat thresholds are met daily. The Jacksonville Transportation Authority is providing free bus rides to designated cooling centers for those in need.
City officials are urging residents to take necessary precautions to stay safe during the extreme heat. They also advise residents to be vigilant for symptoms of heat exhaustion and heatstroke, such as dizziness, nausea, rapid heartbeat, and confusion, and to seek immediate medical attention if these symptoms arise. More details on cooling center locations and amenities can be found at JaxReady.com/StayCoolJax.
