Cooling Centers
This map shows cooling centers that normally get activated during extreme heat advisories. Call before you go or check local government websites for official operating hours.
Cooling centers are places you can go to stay cool during extreme heat. Most locations are not shelters. If you need housing or healthcare assistance, contact Virginia 211.
During extreme heat, spending time in a cooler environment will help prevent illness. For more tips, see Extreme Heat and Heat-Related Illness.
What is a cooling center?
A cooling center is a cool and safe place you can go when it is very hot outside. These are typically indoor places with air conditioning.
How do I find the cooling center closest to my location?
If you click "Allow" when the Use Your Location window pops up, the map will zoom in to display cooling centers closest to your location. You can also enter your address or your zip code in the search bar.
Libraries are shown in blue
.
Community centers and other types (rec centers, fire stations, etc) are shown in green.
Where does the list of cooling centers come from?
Virginia 2-1-1 maintains a current list of cooling centers during summer months, and this list is provided to VDH. If you are a building operator or a local government official and need a location added/removed, please reach out to Virginia 2-1-1 Data Services.
During extreme heat, many localities will list cooling centers on their local government website.
What does it mean if a cooling center is "activated"?
If a cooling center is activated, it means it is open. Local governments will often activate certain cooling centers during extreme heat warnings or advisories. If a cooling center is activated, anyone is encouraged to go there to cool off, especially if you do not have a/c at home.
What is available at a cooling center?
At a minimum, the location will be cooled and will have seating and restrooms available. Additional resources could be available depending on location. Meals are not usually provided at cooling centers.
Are the cooling centers free to use?
Yes. All locations listed on this website are free and open to the public.
Can I bring my pets?
Only service animals are allowed at most public locations such as libraries. We encourage you to call ahead to check if pets are allowed.
What if no cooling centers are open near my location?
If you cannot get to an air-conditioned place for at least a couple of hours, take steps to keep cool. See Extreme Heat for tips. Grocery stores and malls can be good places to stay cool if you cannot find a cooling center near your location.