Help for When It's Hot

Information about cool spaces, cooling centers and other resources during the hot weather.

Updated Thursday, July 23, at 8:55 a.m.

Open: Cool spaces, including libraries, community centers, malls, pools and splash pads

Not open at this time: Additional dedicated cooling centers

Dozens of cool spaces are open in Multnomah County today.

Cool spaces, including dedicated cooling centers, are just one part of Multnomah County’s response to heat, designed to support people when heat risks become extreme.

Bookmark this webpage (multco.us/hot) for the latest updates on cooling centers and other resources to stay safe on hot days. You can also check this interactive Multnomah County map showing dozens of cool spaces like library branches, community centers, interactive fountains, pools and splash pads.

Multnomah County Libraries are open regular hours; always confirm hours and locations before you go. Remember that some libraries are closed for construction.

Take steps to stay safe this summer

Community members are advised to take care when working or playing outside in the midday heat. Remember to drink more water and take cooling breaks. People attending outdoor events under the sun, as well as those without indoor cooling, are especially encouraged to be mindful of heat safety the next few days. If you have access to air conditioning, consider keeping your home around 78 degrees F or less. Check with utility companies to learn about assistance with energy bills.

Check in on your neighbors, friends and relatives and make a plan for visiting a cool location, even for a few hours.

Learn about the symptoms of heat illness and how to respond. This information and printable materials are available in English, Spanish (español), Vietnamese (Tiếng Việt), Russian (Русский), Chinese (中文), Arabic (العربية), Somali (Soomaali) and Ukrainian (Українська). 

If you plan to seek relief from the heat in waterways, please swim and splash safely. Be aware of swift currents, cold water temperatures, hidden hazards and uneven bottom surfaces.

burn ban has been issued by the Portland Fire & Rescue Fire Marshal, and the Multnomah County Fire Defense Board, that began on June 15, 2026. The burn ban includes recreational campfires, fire pits, yard debris, agricultural burning and permits issued for open burning until further notice. The burn ban will remain in effect throughout the summer weather season. If residents are concerned about fire safety, they should call 9-1-1 for immediate assistance.

Certain groups more at risk of heat-related illness

Now is the time to make a plan for petschildren, adults 50 years or older, and those with medical conditions, all of whom are more vulnerable to heat illness. Those facing the highest risk of heat-related illness include:

  • Men over 50 who live alone
  • People without access to air conditioning
  • Pregnant people
  • People on certain medications
  • People who work in hot indoor or outdoor environments
  • People engaging in strenuous or outdoor recreational activities (especially children on turf fields)
  • People who have consumed alcohol

Support our community

Interested in supporting our community during future heat events? Prepare now to help out as an Emergency Shelter Volunteer if Multnomah County opens cooling centers or shelters (Disaster Resource Centers) and requests help from community volunteers. Find an upcoming info session or training.

Consider hosting a misting station. Or work with the Office of Emergency Management to create a Disaster Resource Center.

Bookmark these links