Keeping Cool: Resources Available July 16 and 17 During Period of Extreme Heat

two children playing in a water feature.

Updated July 16, 2024, 9 a.m.

With the heat index forecast to exceed 105 degrees on Tuesday, July 16, and Wednesday, July 17, additional resources are available in Charlotte and Mecklenburg County to help vulnerable residents cope with the extreme heat. Mecklenburg County, the City of Charlotte, the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Emergency Management Office (CMEMO), and homeless service providers work together to monitor the weather, support the needs of the community, and address needs that may arise due to the extreme heat.

The Charlotte Area Transit System will provide free transportation to the Roof Above Day Services Center, recreation centers, senior centers, and spraygrounds listed below, which are designated as cooling stations.  

Resources include:  

Day Services Centers:

There are two day services centers available for people who are living unsheltered:

  • Roof Above’s Day Services Center is located at 945 N College St. It is open from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday, and 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays.
     
  • Block Love Charlotte’s Day Services Center is located at 2738 N Graham St. It is open from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Friday, and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays.

Outreach staff will visit homeless encampments to provide information about available places to find relief locations and water if needed.

Park and Recreation: Centers

The following recreation and senior centers are open to residents seeking relief from the heat:    

Recreation and Senior Center locations and hours of operation are available online.

Park and Recreation: Spraygrounds

The following spraygrounds are also available for use from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily:   

Park and Recreation: Pools and Beach  
The following locations are open to residents seeking relief from the heat:    

  • Double Oaks Family Aquatic Center, 2014 Statesville Ave, is open 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday.
  • Cordelia Pool, 2100 North Davidson St., is open 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday.  
  • Ramsey Creek Beach, 18441 Nantz Road, is open Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m.   


Charlotte Mecklenburg Libraries: 

Charlotte Mecklenburg Library locations are generally open to the public from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. from Monday to Thursday, and from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays.  

Mecklenburg County Fan Initiatives: 

Mecklenburg County DSS Child, Family, and Adult Services is helping seniors and adults who receive disability income by offering free box fans. Mecklenburg County residents 60 years and older and adults ages 18 to 59 who are disabled can pick up a fan while supplies last. Call 980-314-6800 or email [email protected].

Individuals are required to show a valid driver's license or state ID providing proof of age and a current Mecklenburg County address when picking up their fan. Limit one fan per person.

Energy Bill Assistance:

Individuals and families in Mecklenburg County who are experiencing a cooling (or heating) energy bill-related crisis, a life-threatening or health-related emergency, and have a past due or final notice can apply for energy bill assistance through the Crisis Intervention Program. Details on the program, including criteria and applications, are available at MeckNC.gov/Energy or call 704-336-3000. Assistance is available year-round or until all funds are exhausted.

Members of the public may also call 211 to receive the latest information regarding home utility and rental assistance options.