Where To Cool Off In Kirkland During The Heat Wave

KIRKLAND, WA — Starting Saturday, Kirkland neighbors will have a few ways to fend off a potentially historic heat wave expected to last through at least Monday. An excessive heat warning went into effect in Washington and across much of the Pacific Northwest Friday, and the latest forecasts show Kirkland hitting 97 degrees Saturday, 101 degrees Sunday and 104 degrees Monday.

The unusual heat is all but certain to shatter a few records, while the greater Seattle area remains the nation's least air-conditioned. Despite a surge in recent years, just 44.3 percent of Seattle area homes had central air or window units in 2019, the Seattle Times reported Friday.

To help provide more relief, Kirkland officials announced a few options to help beat the heat, including a community cooling center that will operate during peak temperatures on the three hottest days.

Here's where to go:

• Saturday, June 26: Peter Kirk Community Center (352 Kirkland Ave)
  • 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
• Sunday, June 27: North Kirkland Community Center (12421 103rd Ave NE)
  • 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
• Monday, June 28: Peter Kirk Community Center (352 Kirkland Ave)
  • 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.

All guests at the cooling center must pass a COVID-19 screening before entering and face coverings are required once inside. Guests will also need to keep 6 feet of space from people outside their households. Both centers will allow leashed dogs and crated cats.

Beyond the cooling center, residents can also find a reprieve inside local restaurants, stores, malls, movie theaters and shaded park areas, the city said. The Kirkland Library will also open for a few hours Saturday, at limited capacity.

For swimming, the Peter Kirk Pool is open at limited capacity for open swims. Houghton Beach, Waverly Beach and Juanita Beach will not have lifeguards on duty until Monday when temperatures are expected to peak. City officials warn that King County's waterways are still running very cold, despite the exceptional heat, which can cause cold water shock and other complications.

Related:

• After Spike In Drownings, King County Shares Water Safety Tips
• Cold Water Safety: WA Officials Share Reminders Ahead Of The Heat