Local meteorologists are predicting heat index temperatures in the mid to upper nineties for this week, triggering this year’s first activation of the It’s a Cool Thing to Do program starting Tuesday, July 7, 2020, through Thursday, July 9, 2020.  

Due to the Coronavirus outbreak, cooling centers are taking vital precautions to protect the public health. Upon entry, you will be required to wear a mask and social distance yourself at least 6 feet from another person. Screening for symptoms of the Coronavirus will also occur upon entry. 

Free rides to cooling centers are available to those with a physical and financial need through CATA and EATRAN during their normal operating hours. To find out if you qualify for a free ride, or to find a cooling center near you, call 2-1-1.  

Heat index temperatures of 93-102 degrees will usually trigger a “Condition Orange – Heat Alert”, and 103 degrees and above with warrant a “Condition Red – Heat Warning”. This week will be Condition Orange.  

During these extreme heat conditions everyone is urged to spend at least a few hours a day in a cool place. This is even more important for those who work outdoors, small children, the elderly, and people with chronic health conditions. Take care of yourself and others in the heat.  

A list of cooling centers can be found at www.lansingmi.gov/coolingcenters.

2020 Cooling Center locations (PDF)