Keeping cool while temperatures soar
By Terry Murry on Tuesday, August 15th, 2023 in Columbia Basin News More Top Stories
Cooling stations are now open throughout the Columbia Basin to assist residents who do not have access to air conditioning during the hottest part of the day. In addition to the specific centers mentioned below, officials remind people that air-conditioned public buildings like libraries, splash pads, and municipal pools offer ways to cool down.
Morrow County has set up cooling centers at the Oregon Trail Library, 444 N. Main St. in Heppner from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Oregon Trail Library, 200 S. Main St. in Boardman and the Oregon Trail Library, 490 NE Main Ave. in Irrigon, both from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Ione Library District, 385 W. Second St. in Ione Wednesday from 1-6 p.m., Tuesday and Thursday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
All cooling centers in Morrow County will have bottled water and will be open through Friday.
In Walla Walla, the Christian Aid Center, 202 W. Birch St., will be open through Thursday from 12-5:30 p.m., providing water and an air-conditioned environment for those seeking relief from the heat. Dinner will be served at 5:30 p.m., with an option for individuals to check into the shelter after dinner, if they choose.
Additional areas where residents can seek respite from the heat include the Walla Walla Public Library, 238 E. Alder St., will be open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. through Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The Washington Park Splash Pad will be open daily from 5 a.m. to 11 p.m.
