Beat the Heat: Your Essential Guide to Portland's Cooling Centers as Temperatures Soar This August

As a relentless heatwave casts its sweltering grip over the Portland metropolitan area this Saturday, August 16, 2025, officials are taking proactive measures to ensure community safety. With temperatures projected to climb into dangerous territory, a network of cooling centers is set to open its doors, offering vital respite and a much-needed escape from the oppressive heat.

This isn't just about comfort; it's about public health.

Extreme heat can lead to serious, even life-threatening, conditions like heatstroke and heat exhaustion, especially for vulnerable populations such as the elderly, young children, individuals with chronic illnesses, and those without adequate access to air conditioning. These cooling centers serve as havens, providing a cool, safe environment where residents can hydrate, rest, and recover.

Here’s where and when you can find a cool retreat:

• Downtown Portland Community Center: Located at 1000 SW 3rd Ave, Portland, OR 97204.

  Open Saturday, August 16, from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM. Equipped with ample seating, water, and charging stations.

• North East Library: Located at 2400 NE 33rd Ave, Portland, OR 97212. Open Saturday, August 16, from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM. Offers a quiet, air-conditioned space with access to books and public computers.

• Hillsboro Senior Center: Located at 750 SE 8th Ave, Hillsboro, OR 97123.

  Open Saturday, August 16, from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM. Specifically designed with comfort for seniors in mind, but open to all ages, providing a calm environment and light refreshments.

• Gresham Multnomah County Library: Located at 385 NW Miller Ave, Gresham, OR 97030. Open Saturday, August 16, from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM.

  A spacious location offering cool temperatures and public restrooms.

• Tualatin Public Library: Located at 18878 SW Boones Ferry Rd, Tualatin, OR 97062. Open Saturday, August 16, from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM. A family-friendly option with comfortable seating and access to cool water.

Visitors to these centers can expect a cool, welcoming environment, access to drinking water, and restrooms.

Staff will be on hand to assist and ensure everyone’s safety and comfort. While pets are generally not allowed inside, service animals are always welcome.

Beyond utilizing cooling centers, remember these essential tips to stay safe during extreme heat:

• Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water, even if you don't feel thirsty.

  Avoid sugary drinks, alcohol, and caffeine, which can lead to dehydration.

• Dress Light: Wear loose-fitting, lightweight, and light-colored clothing.

• Limit Outdoor Activity: Schedule strenuous outdoor activities for the early morning or late evening. If you must be outside, take frequent breaks in the shade or an air-conditioned space.

• Never Leave Anyone in a Car: Temperatures inside a parked car can rise rapidly to dangerous levels, even with windows slightly open.

  This applies to children, adults, and pets.

• Check on Others: Reach out to elderly family members, neighbors, and friends who may be vulnerable to the heat. Offer assistance or encourage them to visit a cooling center.

• Recognize Heat Illness: Be aware of the signs of heat exhaustion (heavy sweating, weakness, cold/clammyskin, faintness, vomiting) and heatstroke (body temperature above 103°F, red/hot/dry skin, strong/rapid pulse, unconsciousness).

  Seek immediate medical attention if heatstroke is suspected.

Your safety is paramount. Don't underestimate the dangers of extreme heat. Utilize these vital resources and follow these safety guidelines to navigate this challenging August heatwave safely and comfortably.