Walla Walla opens Community Cooling center

WALLA WALLA—The National Weather Service has issued an Excessive Heat Warning for Walla Walla County and the surrounding areas through Friday, July 29, 2022. Dangerously hot conditions, with temperatures around 105° to 115°, are expected.

To assist residents who do not have access to air conditioning during the hottest part of the day, a cooling center is being opened at 401 S. College Ave, in College Place, Wash. The cooling center will be open from 1:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. starting Tuesday, July 26th, through Friday, July 29. The center for Humanitarian Engagement at Walla Walla University will be staffing the cooling center with volunteers and providing water, an air-conditioned environment, and free WIFI for those seeking relief from the heat.

The cooling center is located on Valley Transit’s Mainline route. Valley Transit is currently offering zero-fare rides to the public.

Additional areas where residents can seek respite from the heat include the Walla Walla Public Library, which will be open from 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Monday through Friday and Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. The Washington Park Splash Pad will be available daily from 5:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. p.m. daily.

Anyone interested in volunteering to assist at the Cooling Center can go to the Blue Mountain Volunteer Corps website at https://getconnected.uwbluemt.org