The City of College Station has announced that its air-conditioned municipal facilities will be open to the public during normal business hours on Thursday and Friday. This measure is intended to help residents escape excessive heat, as extreme heat index values are expected to reach dangerous levels across the Brazos Valley during this period.
The city encourages residents whose home air conditioning is struggling or who need a temporary break from the outdoors to use these public spaces to cool down and hydrate.
Facility Locations and Hours
Residents can access the following locations during the specified times:
- Ringer Library: 1818 Harvey Mitchell Pkwy. S. Open Thursday from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- City Hall: 1101 Texas Ave. S. Open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Halter Nature Center: 3555 Rock Prairie Road W. Open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Lincoln Recreation Center: 1000 Eleanor St. Open from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
- Meyer Senior and Community Center: 2275 Dartmouth St. Open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Southwood Community Center: 1520 Rock Prairie Road. Open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Heat Safety Guidelines
The city advises residents to take specific precautions during periods of extreme weather. Individuals should drink plenty of water throughout the day, even if they do not feel thirsty, and avoid sugary, caffeinated, or alcoholic beverages. Residents are also encouraged to frequently check on elderly neighbors, family members, and pets to ensure they have adequate cooling.
Public health officials recommend monitoring for signs of heat-related illnesses. Symptoms of heat exhaustion include heavy sweating, dizziness, headache, and nausea. Heat stroke is an emergency characterized by high body temperature, confusion, a rapid pulse, and a lack of sweating. If heat stroke is suspected, call 911 immediately.
