Updated Wednesday, July 16, 2025, 9:55 a.m.
Cooling centers are NOT open at this time.
Multnomah County and its partners determined that the forecast for Wednesday, July 16, does not meet our thresholds for opening cooling centers.
Community members are encouraged to plan now to be in a cooler space, use cooling towels and drink more water. Taking even a short break in a cool space can make a big difference. Remember that children, elders (especially those living alone), people with medical conditions and pets need extra water and attention.
You can check this interactive map of libraries, community centers, malls, interactive fountains, swimming pools and splashpads. Always confirm hours and locations of libraries before you go. Remember that some libraries are closed for construction.
Keep in mind that while the hottest hours of the day today are expected to be about 4 to 6 p.m., indoor spaces can take longer to cool off. In indoor spaces, expect the hottest time of day today to be 7 to 9 p.m.
Community members are advised to take care when working or playing outside in the midday heat. 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.
>> Learn about the symptoms of heat illness and how to care of yourself and others during hot weather.
If you plan to seek relief from the heat in waterways, please swim and splash safely. Be aware of swift currents, cool water temperatures, hidden hazards and uneven bottom surfaces.
Take steps to prepare yourself and get 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.
Bookmark this webpage (multco.us/hot) for the latest updates on cooling centers and other resources to stay safe on hot days.
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 here.
County responding to heat
The County has been working proactively to prepare the community for heat this week. The Department of County Human Services has reached out to hundreds of property managers to encourage them to check on residents living in apartment buildings, especially older adults living alone. The Office of Emergency Management has been distributing cooling kits to libraries and other public locations.
The Homeless Services Department activated its severe weather outreach program on Monday, July 14, providing cooling supplies to outreach providers, community organizations and mutual aid groups to distribute to people in need across the county. On July 14 alone, outreach teams picked up 7,680 bottles of water, 320 refillable water bottles, 640 cooling towels, 800 electrolyte packets and 800 sunscreen packets.
Support our community
If you’re 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). Attend an upcoming info session or training — including ones happening in August.
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.
