Gordie’s Midday Gossip - Cooling Stations

As temperatures soar in the Tampa Bay area, the city of Tampa has opened three cooling centers to provide relief from the heat. The sweltering conditions are straining air conditioning systems, including at critical facilities like hospitals and clinics. HVAC companies are overwhelmed with service calls as people struggle to keep their units running smoothly. Experts recommend staying hydrated, limiting time outdoors, and checking on vulnerable neighbors during the heatwave. Also, if you have a dog, please make sure that you test the ground before you start your walk so you don’t burn their paws. You can do that by placing your palm on the feel if its hot or not. The stations will be open from 8 a.m. - 10 p.m. today and tomorrow. Locations are Barksdale Adult Activity Center – 1801 N. Lincoln Avenue, George Bartholomew Center – 8608 N. 12th Street, and Cuscaden Pool – 2800 N. 15th Street. Tampa residents can receive up-to-date heat-related alerts by texting HEATSAFE to 888-777.