Extreme heat expected through week

Orange cooling centers slated to remain open

The National Weather Service is forecasting a maximum heat index of at least 103 degrees in Orange County through the week, triggering the opening of cooling centers. Those sites are open to anyone experiencing homelessness who needs a place to cool off in shaded or air-conditioned facilities.

Some of these locations are libraries or community centers that are open during regular business hours regardless of weather, while others are homeless shelters, day-service sites or mobile-shower providers that open additional space and services when the heat index rises. Most offer cold water; some provide salty snacks, cool showers or cooling supplies.

For a list of all cooling center locations and what they offer, please CLICK HERE, and see below for an interactive map.

Please note these hot, humid conditions can be extremely dangerous for people who are unsheltered — and especially those who are elderly or have chronic health conditions. It is particularly important to stay hydrated and seek intermittent relief from the heat to allow your body to recuperate.

Also in Orange County, Lynx (the public bus system) has agreed to provide free transportation along established routes to anyone asking to go to the nearest cooling location.

Seminole and Osceola counties will not open extra cooling centers until a heat index of 108 is forecast, but anyone is welcome to visit county libraries and community parks during regular business hours. Seminole County is currently expected to reach the 108 heat index threshold later this week.

Please watch this page for updates as conditions warrant.

For a map of all cooling center locations, please click here.