Mayor John Whitmire, in coordination with the City of Houston Office of Emergency Management, announces the availability of more than 100 municipal facilities as cooling centers during this week’s period of extreme heat.
The National Weather Service has issued an extreme heat warning for Wednesday, July 22, 2026, valid from 11:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
High-risk groups — such as older adults, young children, and people with chronic illnesses — are advised to take precautions during this time.
To view the cooling center map, the hours of operation of the facilities, and tips on how to prepare for extreme heat, visit: www.houstonoem.org/extreme-heat.
WHAT TO DO DURING AN EXTREME HEAT WAVE:
The Houston Department of Health recommends taking the following precautions to prevent heat-related illnesses, such as heat exhaustion or heat stroke.
- Never leave babies, children, elderly people, or pets unattended in a parked vehicle, even if the windows are slightly open.
- Make sure everyone has exited the vehicle and do not overlook children who may have fallen asleep.
- Carry a bottle of water and increase your water intake. Drink plenty of fluids even before you feel thirsty, but avoid caffeinated, alcoholic, or high-sugar drinks, as they can lead to bodily fluid loss.
- Perform outdoor work or exercise in the early morning or at sunset, when temperatures are not as high.
- Outdoor workers should drink plenty of water or electrolyte-rehydration drinks and take frequent breaks in the shade or in air-conditioned facilities.
- Wear light-colored, loose-fitting clothing that allows sweat to evaporate.
- Wear a wide-brimmed hat to help prevent sunburn and heat-related illnesses.
- Apply sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun’s harmful rays and reduce the risk of sunburn.
- Take breaks in cooling centers or any air-conditioned facility.
- Take cool baths or showers frequently if your home does not have air conditioning.
- Keep your pets indoors. Asphalt and dark pavement can get very hot and burn your pet’s paws. Make sure they have plenty of fresh water.
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