As metro Atlanta swelters under another scorching summer heat wave, with temperatures climbing into the upper 90s and heat indices pushing past 105°F, local officials are urging residents to take precautions against heat-related illnesses.
Extreme heat poses serious risks, especially for older adults, children, outdoor workers, and those without reliable air conditioning.
Tips to Beat the Heat: Atlanta Cooling Centers
- Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day, even if you don’t feel thirsty. Avoid sugary or alcoholic drinks that can dehydrate you.
- Limit outdoor activity: Schedule errands, exercise, or yard work for early morning or evening hours when it’s cooler.
- Dress appropriately: Wear lightweight, loose-fitting, light-colored clothing and a hat for sun protection.
- Cool down smartly: Take cool showers, use fans, close blinds during the day, and avoid using ovens or stoves that add heat to your home.
- Check on vulnerable neighbors: Especially the elderly or those living alone. Never leave children, pets, or anyone in a parked car.
- Know the signs of heat exhaustion: Dizziness, nausea, heavy sweating, or muscle cramps. Heat stroke is a medical emergency—call 911 if someone has a high body temperature, confusion, or stops sweating.
Public libraries, malls, and movie theaters also offer free or low-cost air-conditioned spaces during regular hours. Sign up for local emergency alerts via NotifyATL or your county’s notification system for updates.
Cooling Centers Open in Metro Atlanta
Several counties and organizations have activated cooling centers during this heat wave. Hours and availability can change, so call ahead or check county websites and 2-1-1 for the latest details.
City of Atlanta
- Selena S. Butler Park Recreation Center
98 William Holmes Borders Senior Dr NE, Atlanta, GA 30312
Open today (Tuesday) starting at 11 a.m. Water provided on site. Additional dates/hours activated as needed during heat advisories.
DeKalb County
Multiple recreation centers and libraries serve as cooling centers during advisories. Recent activations have included:
- Frontline Response International, 2585 Gresham Road SE, Atlanta (often 9 a.m.–7 p.m.)
- North DeKalb Senior/Community Center, 3393 Malone Drive, Chamblee
- Mason Mill Recreation Center, 1340 McConnell Drive, Decatur
- Tobie Grant Recreation Center, 593 Parkdale Drive, Scottdale
- Exchange Park Intergeneration Center, 2771 Columbia Drive, Decatur
Most DeKalb libraries and rec centers are available—check dekalbcountyga.gov or call 404-371-2881.
Cobb County
- MUST Ministries Hope House
1297 Bells Ferry Road, Marietta
Typically noon–6:30 p.m.; meals often provided.1
Clayton County
All libraries and recreational centers are serving as cooling stations through early July.
- Senior Services and Flint River Community Center also open.
- Specific hours often 12 p.m.–6:30 p.m.; check claytoncountyga.gov or recent announcements for exact sites like South Clayton Recreation Center.
Gwinnett County
No dedicated cooling centers, but aquatic centers with indoor air-conditioned areas and pools are open for relief:
- Bethesda Park Aquatic Center (Lawrenceville)
- Bogan Park Aquatic Center (Buford)
- Collins Hill Park Aquatic Center (Lawrenceville)
Regular hours apply—great option for families.60
Fulton County (outside Atlanta city limits)
Libraries and community centers often open as cooling spots—contact Fulton County libraries or 2-1-1 for current listings.
For the most up-to-date information, dial 2-1-1, visit your county government website, or follow local news and emergency management social media channels. Stay safe out there, Atlanta—hydrate, take it easy, and look out for one another during this intense summer heat.
