News Summary
In response to a severe heatwave, Memphis has reopened its emergency cooling center, operated by The Hospitality Hub. Located at 590 Washington Avenue, it will provide relief to those suffering from extreme temperatures. The center is accessible until 7 p.m. and offers free transportation through the Memphis Area Transit Authority for those needing it. Local officials are emphasizing the importance of heat safety, especially for vulnerable populations, as temperatures are expected to remain dangerously high. Citizens are encouraged to stay hydrated and utilize available resources during this challenging period.
Memphis has reopened its emergency cooling center amid a severe heatwave that has gripped the city. The cooling center, operated by The Hospitality Hub of Memphis, reopened on Friday, July 19, 2025, and will remain available to the public until 7 p.m. the same day. This initiative aims to provide relief to those suffering from the extreme heat, which experts warn poses serious health risks.
The cooling center is located at 590 Washington Avenue and offers a refuge for individuals looking to escape the sweltering temperatures forecasted to reach the upper 90s for several days, with little relief during the night hours. It is important to note that while the center offers a space to cool down, it is not a shelter.
For individuals needing transportation to the cooling center, the Memphis Area Transit Authority (MATA) provides free rides. Individuals can request a ride by calling 901-486-0939. This service is critical for ensuring that those without transportation can still access the center and find relief from the heat.
City officials clarified that men seeking overnight shelter can go to the Memphis Union Mission, located at 383 Poplar Avenue. The Mission offers free accommodations for men without income before 10:45 a.m., but charges a fee of $6 per night for men who have an income. It is important to plan accordingly, as the doors at the Memphis Union Mission close at 7 p.m. Families in need of shelter are advised to contact the Metropolitan Inter-Faith Association (MIFA) at 901-529-4545 for assistance.
The ongoing heatwave is particularly concerning for vulnerable populations, including children and pets. Experts have issued warnings against leaving children and pets in hot cars, stressing that dangerous temperatures can be reached within minutes, leading to heat-related illnesses and potential fatalities. Health professionals have expressed serious concerns about the prolonged heat affecting the health of all residents, emphasizing the necessity of staying hydrated and avoiding outdoor activities during peak heat hours.
This week, Memphis has experienced dangerously high temperatures, drawing attention from local authorities and health experts alike. Increased awareness around heat safety and available resources such as the cooling center has been prioritized in light of the current conditions. Residents are encouraged to take precautions, utilize available resources like the cooling center, and keep updated on health advisories from local health departments.
As the heatwave continues, local officials are monitoring the situation closely and encouraging the community to look out for one another, especially those who may be more susceptible to the extreme heat. The reopening of the cooling center is a crucial step in helping ensure the safety and well-being of the Memphis community during this challenging time.
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Additional Resources
- Fox 13 Memphis
- Wikipedia: Heat Wave
- WREG News
- Google Search: Memphis cooling center
- Local Memphis
- Google Scholar: Extreme Heat Health Effects
- Action News 5
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Heat Wave
- WREG News – Sunday Update
- Google News: Memphis Cooling Centers
