An Extreme Heat Warning returns to the Big Bend today from 11 a.m. until 8 p.m.
Leon County has activated its extreme heat response, and every library location will be open today as a cooling station. All six branch libraries, which are normally closed on Mondays, will be open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Cooling stations offer water, restrooms, activities and air-conditioned space for anyone seeking relief from the heat.
The main library on Park Avenue will be open for its regular Monday hours and is also available for cooling.
Here's the Leon County news release:
The National Weather Service has issued an Extreme Heat Warning for Leon County, in effect Monday, Aug. 17, from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., with heat index values up to 115 degrees expected.
In response, Leon County has activated its extreme heat response, and every County library location will be open Monday as a cooling station. All six branch libraries, which are normally closed on Mondays, will be open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Cooling stations offer water, restrooms, activities and indoor, air-conditioned space for anyone seeking relief from the heat. The LeRoy Collins Leon County Main Library will be open its regular Monday hours, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Residents who need relief today can visit the Main Library, open until 6 p.m. Sunday.
Cooling station locations for Monday, Aug. 17
• LeRoy Collins Leon County Main Library, 200 W. Park Ave. (10 a.m. to 9 p.m.)
• Bruce J. Host Northeast Branch Library, 5513 Thomasville Road (10 a.m. to 6 p.m.)
• Dr. B.L. Perry Jr. Branch Library, 2817 S. Adams St. (10 a.m. to 6 p.m.)
• Eastside Branch Library, 1583 Pedrick Road (10 a.m. to 6 p.m.)
• Jane G. Sauls Fort Braden Branch Library, 16327 Blountstown Highway (10 a.m. to 6 p.m.)
• Lake Jackson Branch Library, 3840-300 N. Monroe St. (10 a.m. to 6 p.m.)
• Woodville Branch Library, 8000 Old Woodville Road (10 a.m. to 6 p.m.)
"Leon County prepares for extreme weather in all its forms, and that includes heat," said Leon County Commission Chairman Christian Caban.
"County Emergency Management teams are focused on the forecast and responding now. I want to thank the first responders and County employees who will be working in these conditions to keep our community safe. Every County library will be open Monday as a cooling station, so please take care of yourself, check on your neighbors and use these facilities if you need relief."
How the County is protecting the community
• Vulnerable populations: Leon County Emergency Management is coordinating with the Big Bend Continuum of Care and community partners to address the needs of heat-vulnerable residents, including individuals experiencing homelessness, older adults living alone and households without reliable air conditioning.
• Medical readiness: Leon County Emergency Medical Services has increased staff readiness for a potential rise in heat-related calls.
• Animal safety: Leon County Animal Control is sharing information on heat risks to pets, including the need for hydration, shade and safe shelter.
• Outdoor workers and events: County departments are advising outdoor employees to follow heat safety protocols, and County Parks and Recreation and Tourism are advising event organizers at County facilities to take special care.
• Public information: The County is sharing heat safety updates through the Citizens Connect app, social media, the Emergency Information Portal and local media.
National Weather Service heat safety tips
• Drink plenty of water throughout the day, even if you do not feel thirsty. Avoid alcohol and caffeine.
• Stay in air-conditioned spaces as much as possible. If your home does not have air conditioning, visit a cooling station.
• Reduce, eliminate or reschedule strenuous outdoor activity to the coolest part of the day, typically early morning.
• Wear lightweight, loose-fitting, light-colored clothing.
• Never leave children, older adults or pets in a parked vehicle, even briefly. The inside of a car can reach deadly temperatures in minutes.
• Check on neighbors, friends and relatives, especially older adults, those with medical conditions and those without air conditioning.
• Know the signs of heat illness. Heavy sweating, weakness, dizziness and nausea can signal heat exhaustion: move to a cool place, sip water and apply cool, wet cloths. A body temperature above 103 degrees, hot and dry skin, confusion or unconsciousness can signal heat stroke: call 911 immediately.
These measures remain in place until the National Weather Service warning expires. For the latest updates, visit the Leon County Emergency Information Portal at LeonCountyFL.gov/ei, download the Leon County Citizens Connect app or follow Leon County Government on social media.
