Ulster County Opens Cooling Centers as Extreme Heat Forecast Begins Tuesday

KINGSTON, N.Y. — Ulster County will open two cooling centers beginning Tuesday, June 30, as dangerously hot weather is expected to move into the region this week.

The Ulster County Department of Emergency Services said the cooling centers will operate daily from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. through the evening of Friday, July 3. Officials said they will reassess conditions on Thursday, July 2, to determine whether the centers should remain open through the holiday weekend and into next week.

The cooling centers are located at:

2nda Iglesia La Mision Church, 80 Elmendorf Street, Kingston

The Trudy Center, 50 Center Street, Ellenville

Law enforcement agencies and partner organizations that encounter people in need of shelter may transport them directly to either location. For information about either cooling center, call (845) 224-9262.

The Family of Woodstock Hotline is also available to provide additional support at (845) 338-2370.

County officials are urging residents to take precautions during the heat event by staying hydrated, avoiding strenuous outdoor activity during the hottest part of the afternoon, checking on older adults, neighbors with medical conditions and other vulnerable residents, and learning to recognize the signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke.

Officials said the cooling centers provide a safe, air-conditioned space for anyone seeking relief from the extreme heat. Residents are encouraged to monitor weather forecasts, take steps to stay cool and seek medical attention if they experience symptoms of a heat-related illness.

More information about Ulster County cooling centers is available at www.ulstercountyny.gov/cooling-centers.

Note: this article was updated on June 29 to reflect the correct Ellenville location.