Polk County Faces Extreme Heat: Cooling Centers Open

As high temperatures and humidity loom, Polk County is set to activate its Extreme Temperature Plan beginning Sunday, June 28, at 4 p.m. The National Weather Service forecasts heat index values surpassing 100 degrees Fahrenheit, with the intense heat anticipated to persist into the Fourth of July weekend. This plan allows officials to open designated buildings as shelters for residents to escape dangerous weather conditions.

Extreme heat conditions trigger the activation of these cooling centers, which may have extended hours beyond normal business times. In the Des Moines metro area, several cooling centers are accessible, and DART will provide free rides to these facilities. For a comprehensive list of available centers, the Polk County website is recommended. It is advisable to contact centers beforehand to verify openings.