Cooling centers to remain open in Phoenix through record-breaking heat

Phoenix plans to keep cooling centers open through the first week of October as heat records continue to be broken in the Valley.

All 17 Phoenix public libraries will remain cooling centers during business hours through Oct. 7, according to city spokesperson Keyera Williams.

Phoenix set new heat records between Tuesday and Friday, with temperatures reaching 112 degrees by Friday afternoon, according to the National Weather Service. Oct. 1 was forecasted to hit 110 degrees, marking the latest date on record to reach that temperature or higher.

In response, the Maricopa Association of Governments (MAG) announced that their heat relief network map , which includes hydration stations, will be extended through Oct. 31, with several locations staying open.

MAG's network includes "partners providing water, cooling, and donation sites throughout the Valley with the goal of preventing heat-related illnesses and deaths among vulnerable populations," a statement on the regional agency's website says.

As of Sept. 7, year-to-date data from the Maricopa County Department of Public Health shows that heat has caused 118 deaths in the county this year, with an additional 91 deaths where heat was a contributing factor. This marks seven more heat-related deaths compared to the same time in 2023 . Last year, Maricopa County recorded 645 confirmed heat-related deaths , according to the health department.

The summer season begins on May 1, according to the MAG website. As of Friday, more than 60 cooling centers were active on the heat relief network's map.

Additionally, nearly 20 respite centers were in operation. Similar to cooling centers, respite centers offer a cooled space and drinking water, but they also provide a place for uninterrupted rest. Burton Barr Central Library, located on North Central Avenue near Interstate 10, will operate as a 24-hour respite center, according to spokesperson Keyera Williams.