Austin prepares for incoming heat wave
According to a recent KXAN weather forecast, temperatures could reach triple-digits by the end of this week. Temperatures are expected to be the highest Wednesday in the Austin area.
In a press release, the city of Austin said it is maintaining cooling centers, which are available during the summer months for people to beat the heat. City facilities, including branches of the Austin Public Library and Parks and Recreation Department recreation centers, can be used as cooling centers.
These facilities are meant to serve as a temporary relief from the heat during normal operating hours, said the release. Service animals, as defined under the Americans with Disabilities Act, are allowed in city facilities.
KXAN's Grace Reader spoke with the city of Austin Homeland Strategy Officer, David Gray, on how HSO prepares to help those experiencing homelessness during the heat.
Gray said city facilities will open their cooling centers for anyone who needs them during the day. He added their offices purchased water for outreach teams to distribute to people experiencing homelessness throughout the city.
To ensure the message reached unsheltered people, Gray said a text alert was sent in both English and Spanish to more than 3,500 people.
Gray said his staff at HSO stays ready for situations like this.'Just last week we had a briefing with our staff about hot, warm weather so we stay pretty ready.'
'We're ready for folks who are living unsheltered in our community to have what they need to stay hydrated and stay safe,' Gray said.
Gray also said unsheltered folks who own dogs are allowed at cooling centers. 'We do ask [them to] keep their pets leashed and safe for the safety of our other guests and users of city facilities.'
Those in need of escaping the heat can go to any city cooling facility. Gray stressed the importance of staying safe and hydrated from the heat.
To see the current list of cooling centers, locations and hours of operation, visit austintexas.gov/alerts.
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
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