Miami opens 10 Cooling Centers to protect residents from dangerous summer heat
Miami, Florida – The City of Miami is launching ten designated Cooling Centers to assist people handle the risks of excessive heat as temperatures start to rise once again. Running from May 1 to October 31, the 2025 Extreme Heat Season is an important time for public health and safety as the area confronts more severe summer weather.
Known for its year-round warmth, Miami now has over 130 days a year with temperatures over 90 degrees Fahrenheit. But the issue goes beyond the temperature reading; high humidity can raise the heat index even further. Heat indices hit an incredible 112°F in May 2024, highlighting the very real risks resulting from prolonged exposure to such intolerable circumstances.
The City’s Office of Resilience and Sustainability has partnered with the Department of Parks and Recreation and the Fire-Rescue Division of Emergency Management to implement the 2025 Cooling Center project in response to this increasing threat. The action fits the more general citywide plan on climate resilience, also known as the “Miami Forever Climate Ready: Extreme Heat Plan.”
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Various park community centers throughout Miami will serve as Cooling Centers. These air-conditioned indoor venues have restrooms, drinking water, seating areas, and heat safety educational materials. The facilities are purposely located in places where people are more prone to suffer from heat-related illnesses, such as communities with older people, young children, or those with preexisting medical disorders.
“As we enter our extreme heat season, it’s critical that we take proactive steps to protect our most vulnerable residents. The launch of these Cooling Centers is a testament to our commitment to building a safer, more resilient Miami for everyone,” said Mayor Francis X. Suarez.
The effort is also carefully coordinated to complement—not duplicate—Miami-Dade County’s existing Cooling Center network, which includes public libraries located within city boundaries.
“While we encourage residents and visitors to get outdoors and enjoy our beautiful City, we recognize the importance of having a safe and inviting area to cool off during this extreme heat season. Parks play an integral role in leisure and recreational access, and we are happy to work side by side with the other City Departments to provide such a vital service for our residents and visitors.”, said LaClevia Morley, Interim Parks & Recreation Director
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Residents can locate the nearest Cooling Center by visiting the City of Miami’s website at miami.gov/coolingcenter. As temperatures continue to rise, city leaders hope these centers will offer much-needed relief and serve as a reminder of the ongoing challenges posed by climate change.
