Cooling center opens in FW

Federal Way Community Center available through Wednesday to beat the heat.

Temperatures this week are expected to be in the 80s to the low 90s — high enough that the National Weather Service has issued an excessive heat warning through Wednesday, Aug. 16.

The Federal Way Community Center (FWCC) will be available as a cooling center through Wednesday, Aug. 16, and any time there is another excessive heat warning in this area, according to a press release from the mayor’s office.

The Washington State Department of Health warns that hotter days and heat events like this one will continue to increase, according to climate scientists. This makes it that much more important to know how to stay safe in the heat and where to go to get cool.

“We want to acknowledge that many people in our community don’t have air conditioning in their homes, which can put them at risk of heat-related illnesses, including death,” said Federal Way Mayor Jim Ferrell in a press release.

Heat-related risks in addition to lack of air conditioning are higher for outdoor workers, young children, older adults, people experiencing poverty, and people with chronic diseases, the Washington State Department of Health also states.

Tips for staying safe can be found here.

“It’s essential to be aware of these risks and take appropriate precautions. We’re proud to have the FWCC as a cooling space for our Federal Way community during times like this.” Mayor Ferrell said.

The FWCC operates Monday to Friday from 5-9 p.m., Saturday from 7-6 p.m., and Sunday from 9-5 p.m. The FWCC is available to the public free of charge, but pets are not allowed. Day passes are available for purchase at the FWCC. The FWCC is at 876 S. 333rd St. For additional details, you can visit itallhappenshere.org .