This week’s villain: The sun. Photo: NASA.

Press release from the Humboldt County Department of Health and Human Services:

In response to the extreme heat forecast for the coming days, Humboldt County is opening cooling centers at the Hoopa, Willow Creek and Garberville library branches. These centers will provide a safe and cool environment for residents seeking relief from high temperatures that are expected to reach into the 100s in some locations.

Health & Human Services Director Connie Beck said ensuring the safety and well-being of our community during extreme weather conditions is a high priority. “We encourage everyone, especially those most vulnerable to heat, to take advantage of these cooling centers and get some relief from the unusually hot weather.”

Cooling centers will be opened at the following locations and times:

Kim Yerton Memorial Library (Hoopa)
370 Loop Road, Hoopa

Hours of Operation
Tuesday, July 2: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 2 to 5 p.m.
Wednesday, July 3: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 2 to 8 p.m.
Thursday, July 4: Closed for the holiday.
Friday, July 5: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 2 to 5 p.m.
Saturday, July 6: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 2 to 5 p.m.

Phone: 530-625-5082

Willow Creek Library
39 Mayfair St. (at Highway 299 & 96), Willow Creek

Hours of Operation
Tuesday, July 2: Closed
Wednesday, July 3: noon to 5 p.m.
Thursday, July 4: Closed for the holiday.
Friday, July 5: noon to 4 p.m.
Saturday, July 6: noon to 4 p.m.

Phone: 530-629-2146

Garberville Library
715 Cedar St., Ste. A, Garberville

Hours of Operation
Tuesday, July 2: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Wednesday, July 3: noon to 7 p.m.
Thursday, July 4: Closed for the holiday.
Friday, July 5: noon to 6 p.m.
Saturday, July 6: noon to 4 p.m.

Phone: 707-923-2230

Karuk Natural Resource Center (Orleans)
39051 Highway 96, Orleans

Hours of Operation
Thursday, July 4: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Friday, July 5: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

These cooling centers will be equipped with air conditioning, water, seating and reading materials to ensure a comfortable and relaxing environment. Library staff will be on hand to assist visitors and provide information on staying safe during extreme heat.

Residents are reminded to take precautions during high temperatures, including staying hydrated, wearing light clothing and avoiding strenuous activities during peak heat hours. Special attention should be given to children, the elderly and pets, who are more susceptible to heat-related illness.

For more information about the cooling centers or tips on staying safe during extreme heat, please visit humboldtgov.org/emergency or contact the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office of Emergency Services (OES) at 707-268-2500.