As U.S. cities again confront dangerous heat waves — including triple-digit temperatures across southern and western states — many cities are recommending that vulnerable groups seek refuge at cooling centers. These are air-conditioned buildings that are designated as a safe place during extreme heat events.
Democracy Dies in Darkness
Cooling centers save lives in a heat wave — if you can get there
Amid lethal heat, lack of transportation and awareness, as well as stigmas, can trip up efforts to get the most vulnerable into a cool place
July 15, 2023 at 6:00 a.m. EDT