Mayor Wu Declares Heat Emergency For Boston, Opens Cooling Centers

BOSTON — A heat emergency has been declared for the City of Boston starting Tuesday, July 19 to Thursday, July 21 as theBay State prepares for a heat wave with temperatures over 90 degrees, Boston Mayor Michelle Wu said Monday.

Read more: 'Oppressive' Heat Wave Expected To Hit Parts Of MA This Week

To help fight the heat, Boston will be opening a number of cooling centers through the 12 Boston Centers for Youth & Families around the city from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., but due to the rising number of COVID-19 cases, masks are strongly encouraged inside the cooling centers.

A complete list of cooling centers in Boston can be found here.

"We're working quickly to make sure all of our Boston residents and families are protected during this week’s extreme weather," said Wu. "It is clear that a changing climate is a risk to our health and communities. I urge everyone to stay cool and safe, and check on your neighbors during the week."

Wu offered advice on how to stay hydrated suggesting limiting physical activity, using sunscreen and making sure to not leave pets or children alone in cars. Over 50 water features and splash pads will be open at parks and playgrounds throughout the city, Wu added.

Select indoor BCYF pools are open and the outdoor BCYF Mirabella Pool is open Wednesday through Saturday. To find an open time to register to swim, click here.