[Archived] City of Alexandria Offers Cooling Centers in Response to Hazardous Heat Forecast

For Immediate Release: June 29, 2021 

The City of Alexandria is offering cooling centers to community members throughout the summer. Those in need of a place to cool off, due to the hazardous weather outlook forecast by the National Weather Service, should visit one of the City facilities listed below. Temperatures are expected to reach the upper 90s through Wednesday, June 30. The hot temperatures, combined with high humidity, will cause heat indices of more than 100 degrees. 

Prolonged exposure to hot temperatures and high humidity can cause heat-related illnesses, such as heat exhaustion, cramps or, in extreme cases, heat stroke. It is especially important for individuals with underlying health issues to take extra precautions and plan ahead for this and future excessive heat events. During extended heat waves, it is advised to stay indoors and limit exposure to the sun; drink plenty of water; and wear loose, lightweight and light-colored clothing.  

Cooling centers are offered at the following recreation centers during regular business hours June 29-30: 

• Charles Houston Recreation Center (901 Wythe St.), 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. 

• Leonard “Chick” Armstrong Recreation Center (25 West Reed Ave.), 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. 

• Lee Center (1108 Jefferson St.), 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. 

• Mount Vernon Recreation Center (2701 Commonwealth Ave.), 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. 

• Patrick Henry Recreation Center (4653 Taney Ave.), 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. 

• William Ramsay Recreation Center (5650 Sanger Ave.), 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. 

City staff may screen visitors for COVID-19 symptoms (questionnaire and temperature check). In addition, staff and visitors will be required to wear face masks when using shared spaces, such as restrooms and lobbies. Masks will be provided as needed, and bottled water will also be available. 

Additional assistance is available for adults 60 years of age and older through the City’s Senior Cool Care Program, which provides cooling fans and other assistance to seniors who meet income and other guidelines; call 703.746.5999 to find out if you are eligible. The Virginia Energy Assistance Cooling Program offers financial assistance to households with a person over the age of 60, a child under age six or someone receiving disability payments through social security. 

Residents are also encouraged to check on neighbors who may either be at risk or not have access to air conditioning. For immediate welfare checks, including community members experiencing homelessness, call 703.746.4444. Keep pets indoors as much as possible with plenty of fresh water; use caution when walking them on hot pavement; and do not leave pets or children in vehicles, even if the air conditioning is on.  

Visit the City’s website for cooling options throughout the summer and recreation center operating hours. 

For inquiries from the news media only, contact Andrea Blackford, Senior Communications Officer, at andrea.blackford@alexandriava.gov or 703.746.3959.