Orange County opens cooling centers as heat wave intensifies

Orange County activated cooling centers countywide in a June 30 notice as the heat wave intensified, turning libraries, churches, town halls and other public buildings into immediate relief sites for residents who cannot safely stay in hot homes. County Executive Steve Neuhaus said the centers are open to all Orange County residents, and the county urged people to call ahead because hours vary.

The list stretches across western and central Orange County, with sites including Crawford Town Hall in Pine Bush, Echo Grace Church in Washingtonville, Goodwill Church in Montgomery, the Goshen Public Library and Historical Society, Middletown Thrall Library, the 8-10 Mulberry Street location in Middletown, Monroe Free Library, the Municipal Center in Walden, Newburgh Free Library, Otisville Fire Department and Port Jervis Free Library. Older adults, people with health conditions and anyone without adequate cooling at home are at the top of the list for help.

Drink plenty of water, wear light-colored loose-fitting clothing, stay indoors during the hottest part of the day, avoid strenuous outdoor activity and never leave children or pets in vehicles. Neuhaus also urged residents to look out for one another and check on neighbors, especially the elderly and people who live alone or in older housing that can hold heat for hours.

Cooling centers can include libraries, community and senior centers, schools, malls, spray parks, community pools, shaded parks and beaches. Older adults, young children, outdoor workers and people with existing health conditions face the most risk from hot weather, and cooling-center lists are updated frequently in summer, with callers asked to confirm a site is open before heading there.

National Weather Service guidance for the New York region typically issues an Extreme Heat Watch 24 to 48 hours before an event, while an Extreme Heat Warning comes within 24 hours. For people without air conditioning, find the nearest cooling shelter or stay with family or friends who have AC. In May 2026, New York State Health's Heat Risk and Illness Dashboard helps the public and county officials gauge forecasted heat-related risk.