Need a place to escape the heat this weekend? Cooling centers to open in Thurston County

High temperatures in the 80s and 90s are expected in Thurston County this weekend and next. Because extreme heat can cause illness and worsen existing health conditions, Thurston County Emergency Management is opening cooling centers throughout the county during the heat wave.

According to a news release from Thurston County Emergency Management and Thurston County Public Health & Social Services, there will be eight cooling centers available providing indoor, air-conditioned spaces for visitors. An emergency cooling center for those without a place to stay indoors also will be available.

Cooling center locations

Hawks Prairie Timberland Library is in operation daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at 8205 Martin Way E Suite B, Lacey. Limited seating available.

Lacey Timberland Library is in operation from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. every day but Sunday at 500 College St SE.

Olympia Timberland Library is in operation from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. every day but Sunday at 313 Eighth Ave SE.

Rainier Senior Center is available as needed at 108 Michigan St. S., Rainier. Call 360-292-5363 for more information.

Tenino Timberland Library is in operation from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday at 172 Central Ave W.

Tumwater Timberland Library is in operation from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. every day but Sunday at 7023 New Market St. SE.

Yelm Timberland Library is in operation from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday at 210 Prairie Park St.

Virgil Clarkson Lacey Senior Center will be in operation Sunday from 12:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.; Monday 8 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.; and Tuesday 8 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. at 6757 Pacific. Ave SE.

An emergency daytime cooling center for those without a place to stay indoors will be available from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday, Saturday and Sunday at Sergio’s Place, 3444 Martin Way NE. Pets are welcome.

Donations of water, sunscreen, aloe, sport drinks, hats and snacks will be accepted at Sergio’s Place during open hours.

There are several emergency shelter options in the county, including Union Gospel Mission for single adults and Community Youth Services for those ages 18 to 24. A cooling center for families will be open at Family Support Center, 3545 Seventh Ave. SW, Suite 200. Emotional support animals are allowed.

More information on shelters in Thurston County can be found by calling the Thurston County Shelter Hotline at 844-628-7343.