The National Weather Service has issued an Excessive Heat Warning for Seattle and surrounding areas from Thursday afternoon through late Saturday night.
The City of Seattle is providing information and public spaces that may be used by residents to stay cool in the high temperatures.
Stay hydrated
- Drink plenty of water. Have a beverage with you at all times, and sip or drink frequently. Don’t wait until you’re thirsty to drink.
- Avoid drinks with caffeine, alcohol and large amounts of sugar because they can actually de-hydrate your body.
Protect your pets
Pets are especially vulnerable in high heat and the Seattle Animal Shelter recommends the following:
- Never leave your animal unattended in direct sunlight. Provide a shady area for retreat, such as a dog house, porch or shady tree, and always provide cool water.
- If you leave animals indoors, open screened windows, keep a fan running, provide plenty of water, and, if possible, leave them in a cool location.
- Never leave animals unattended in a vehicle. Animals do not perspire like humans; they cool themselves by panting. Seats in vehicles get hot under animals’ feet and prevent them from perspiring through their paws. Temperatures rise quickly leaving them trapped and unable to escape the heat.
- If you must travel with your pet, carry water. If a trip requires you to leave your pet in the car at any point, think about saving that for another day. It’s not worth the risk.
- Avoid overexerting your animal in hot weather. Exercise is fine when taken in moderation, but extreme heat conditions, obesity, old age, breed and underlying disease can predispose an animal to the risk of heat exhaustion and heat stroke.
- For birds, take caution and place the bird’s cage away from direct sunlight during the intense heat of the afternoon. Provide water and fruits and vegetables with high moisture content.
Library
Ballard Library (5614 22nd Ave NW) is equipped with air conditioning, and will serve as a cooling center when the area experiences extreme heat. Hours are Thursday: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., Friday: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Saturday: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Senior Center
Ballard NW Senior Center (5429 32nd Ave NW) has air conditioning and is open to the public. Call (206) 297-0403 to find out more details.
Pools and Water Areas
Green Lake Wading Pool (N 73rd and E Green Lake Dr N) is open from 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. everyday.
Ballard Commons Spray Park (5701 22nd Ave NW) is open from 11 a.m. – 8 p.m. everyday.
West Green Lake (7312 W Green Lake Dr) and East Green Lake (7201 E Green Lake Dr N) Lifeguarded Beaches are open from noon – 7 p.m. on weekdays and 11 a.m. – 7 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays.
