Updated Wednesday, Aug. 27, 11:10 a.m.
Cooling centers are NOT open at this time.
But cooling centers are just one part of Multnomah County’s response to heat, designed to support people when heat risks become extreme.
Check this interactive Multnomah County map showing dozens of cool spaces you can go to cool off, including libraries, community centers, malls, interactive fountains, swimming pools and splashpads. Bookmark this webpage (multco.us/hot) for the latest updates on cooling centers and other resources to stay safe on hot days.
Take steps to stay cool and safe through the rest of summer
Community members are advised to take care when working or playing outside in the midday heat. People attending outdoor events under the sun, as well as those without indoor cooling, are especially encouraged to be mindful of heat safety throughout the next several days.
Certain groups most at risk of heat-related illness
People facing the highest risk of heat-related illness include:
- Men over 55 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 new outdoor recreational activities (especially children on turf fields)
- People who have consumed alcohol
>> Learn about the symptoms of heat illness and how to care of yourself and others during hot weather. <<
Stay safe in the water and while doing other recreational activities
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. Due to recent Willamette River closures due to toxic blue green algae, avoid any area with possible algae. Find what it looks like — and the latest advisories from the State of Oregon — here.
Heat stroke is a life-threatening emergency that requires immediate medical attention. Know the signs of dehydration, heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Practice prevention by staying hydrated, taking breaks in the shade and using cooling towels or misters to avoid a dangerous rise in body temperature.
Everyone should take care when working or playing outside in the midday heat. Remember to drink more water and take cooling breaks. Even a few minutes of cooling can help prevent heat illness.
Worker safety
People who work outside are encouraged to drink plenty of water and take breaks in the shade. Under Oregon Occupational Safety and Health (Oregon OSHA) rules, outdoor workers are entitled to shade, breaks and water. Employers are responsible to protect their workers. Oregon OSHA has more information for workers about their rights under state law.
Know your rights: State restrictions on electricity disconnections
Portland General Electric (PGE) and Pacific Power cannot disconnect your electricity service on days with a severe heat alert or for 48 hours after a severe heat alert was in effect. Severe heat alerts include Heat Advisories, Extreme Heat Watches and Extreme Heat Warnings.
Learn more about your protections and how to contact your provider if your power is disconnected.
Prepare your home for the heat
Take steps to prepare yourself for future hot weather and keep your home summer-ready. Keep an emergency supply of water storage — whatever your space allows. Consider buying sun-blocking curtains, and stock up on sunscreen, cooling towels and other summer essentials. Consider using a box fan if it’s under 95 degrees and add a filter if the air quality is poor.
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. Attend 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
- National Weather Service: Check the forecast and plan outdoor activities for the coolest times of day.
- 211info: Dial 211 to find a cool space nearest you and to learn about transportation options.
- Public Alerts: Sign up to receive health and safety alerts in your area.
- Heat Risk Map: The National Weather Service forecasts heat risk for vulnerable populations.
- Clackamas County: Find cool spaces in Clackamas County.
- Washington County: Find cool spaces in Washington County.
- Aging and Disability Resource Connection: 24-hour information and assistance to older people, people with disabilities and caregivers. Connect with them at 503-988-3646 or adrc@multco.us.
