The first cooling center in Riverside open to both people and their pets is available this weekend, offering an escape from the October heat wave.
“Extreme heat is dangerous, so our cooling centers provide a vital respite during heat waves like this,” Riverside Mayor Patricia Lock Dawson said. “Being able to bring your pet along with you makes it more likely that people will take advantage of this, while keeping our animal friends safe as well.”
The pet-friendly cooling center has been established in the Salvador J. Lara Casa Blanca Library at 2985 Madison St. People, dogs and cats are welcome from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily.
“Pets are especially vulnerable to extreme temperatures, and this cooling center is designed to provide a safe refuge for them,” Councilman Jim Perry said. “A pet-friendly cooling center is a great place to relax and dream of cooler weather.”
There are spaces reserved specifically for animals, complete with water bowls, feed trays and other supplies. Pet owners are required to keep an eye on their four-legged friends at all times. More information is available at riversideca.gov/library/.
The intense heat started last Monday in the Riverside metropolitan area and surrounding valleys, and the mercury surpassed 100 degrees every afternoon since then through Friday.
Saturday highs reached 97 degrees in the downtown Riverside area, 100 in the Temecula Valley and 108 in the Coachella Valley.
Triple-digit temperatures were expected to continue in the county through at least Monday, with overnight lows in the upper 60s.
A regional excessive heat warning has been extended to 8 p.m. this Monday.
“Temperatures will remain well above average,” according to the National Weather Service. “Drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air-conditioned room and stay out of the sun.”
Information on cooling centers across Riverside County is available at capriverside.org/cool-centers.