Hennepin County summer cooling options

• 08/22/2023

~ from Hennepin County News

Excessive heat warning has been issued by the National Weather Service

This week, the forecasted high temperatures are expected to exceed 95 degrees. The National Weather Service has issued an excessive heat warning for Hennepin County for Tuesday and Wednesday, as the heat index value exceeds 110 degrees, followed by a heat advisory on Thursday. During this time, overnight temperatures will not drop below 70 degrees providing little to no relief from the heat.
 

Make plans now to prepare

Hennepin County remains committed to serving residents. Please use our interactive cooling options map to locate a place near you that can offer relief from summer heat. All 41 Hennepin County libraries provide an air-conditioned space for keeping cool where you can enjoy books, magazines or browse the internet while using free Wi-Fi or public computers.
 

Populations at risk

In the United States, more than 600 Americans die of complications from overheating annually. Young children, senior citizens, pregnant people and people who are sick or overweight are most vulnerable. The populations in Minnesota most at-risk from extreme heat include, but are not limited to:

• Children under age five, people age 15-34, and adults age 65+, especially those living alone
• People with chronic medical conditions, like heart disease or high blood pressure
• People of all ages who are doing extended or heavy physical activity, like playing sports or working outdoors
• People living at or below the poverty line
• People experiencing homelessness
  

Stay safe

Take care of each other by checking in on neighbors, family, friends and those who are vulnerable to extreme heat conditions.

Tips on preventing heat-related illnesses include:

•  Staying hydrated and drinking plenty of fluids, especially water, throughout the day.
• Keeping cool by visiting air-conditioned places if your home is hot.
• Being informed by the weather forecast and adjusting activities as necessary to stay safe in the heat.
• Knowing the signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke.
  

General heat-safety tips include:

• Never leave children, disabled adults or pets in parked vehicles. Temperatures inside a parked vehicle can rapidly rise to a dangerous level.
• Wear lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing.
• Limit your outdoor activity to morning and evening hours.
  

Air quality will be a factor

In addition to the higher temperatures, air quality is expected to be in the yellow (moderate) range. Here are the precautions you can take:

• Monitor the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency’s website for current and future air quality alerts.
• Download the AirNow mobile app.
• Visit Hennepin County’s Climate Action webpage for tips on staying healthy during poor air quality.