08/12/2026
TOO HOT TO MOVE? If you've been outside, you know it's hot. But extreme heat isn't just uncomfortable—it's dangerous! Prolonged exposure to extreme heat—inside or outside the home—can result in one or more of the following serious health issues:
- Heat cramps: symptoms include muscle spasms or cramps usually affecting the abdomen, legs, or arms.
- Heat exhaustion: symptoms include headache, nausea, profuse sweating, dizziness, and weakness.
- Heat syncope (fainting): symptoms include sudden dizziness and fainting caused by dehydration or standing for too long.
- Heatstroke: the body's core temperature rapidly exceeds 104° F. Symptoms include confusion, seizures, hot/dry skin, and loss of consciousness. This condition requires immediate medical intervention—dial 911.
- Rhabdomyolysis: rapid breakdown of muscle tissue caused by intense physical exertion while in extreme heat, releasing proteins that can damage the kidneys.
- Exacerbation of existing conditions: stress to the cardiovascular, respiratory, and renal systems, worsening heart disease, asthma, and kidney failure.
- Mental health effects: increased irritability and aggravated symptoms of psychiatric and mood disorders, often spiking related emergency room visits
Thousands of Americans die annually as a result of extreme heat. That's why we've curated this list of cooling centers across the country. If wherever you are is too hot, there may be a place nearby you can go to seek relief.
(Link in comments.)
