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Excessive Heat Warning – Cooling Center List and Resources


posted on Wednesday, August 23, 2023.

The high temperatures and humidity levels, together known as the Heat Index, are creating a dangerous weather situation this week. The Heat Index is forecast to exceed 100°. The National Weather Service has issued an Excessive Heat Warning for Racine and the rest of southeastern Wisconsin through 7 PM on Thursday, August 24.

Cooling Centers are available to anyone who needs a safe, public space to cool off during the extreme heat. Be sure to call ahead to confirm their hours. Also, some locations have temporary expanded hours for this week.

Click to enlarge:
Extreme Heat Cooling Centers (City of Racine) - Updated 05.17.2023  Updated Cooling Center Hours 8.22.2023

Those most at risk of getting sick from the high temperatures and humidity are older adults, those who work or exercise outdoors, infants and children, people without housing, and those with a chronic medical condition.

Tips for staying safe:

  • Stay in air-conditioned buildings and/or vehicles as much as possible.
  • Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water and fluids with electrolytes, even if you are not thirsty.
  • Avoid drinking alcohol or fluids containing large amounts of sugar.
  • Limit time spent outdoors, especially during the hottest times of day.
  • Wear loose-fitting, light colored, breathable clothing.
  • Monitor yourself and others for signs of heat-related illness. Check in with friends, loved-ones, and neighbors to make sure they’re ok too.

If you start feeling overheated, weak, dizzy, nauseated, or have muscle cramps, you could be experiencing heat illness. Move to air conditioning, drink water, get under a fan, and put on cool washcloths.  If your symptoms worsen or don’t improve, go to the emergency room or call 9-1-1 if needed.

If you see a parked car with a child left alone, call 9-1-1 and stay with the car. If you see a pet left alone, also call 9-1-1 and don’t leave until help arrives.