Las Cruces activates cooling stations as triple-digit heat lingers through Wednesday

Six city facilities will offer shelter from the heat from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. as temperatures rise above 100 degrees

Organ Mountain News report

LAS CRUCES - With temperatures expected to reach 105 degrees in Las Cruces, city officials have activated six public cooling stations through Wednesday, June 18, to help residents escape the extreme heat.

The National Weather Service in El Paso forecasts daytime highs exceeding 100 degrees for several days this week. In response, the City of Las Cruces is offering temporary, air-conditioned shelter for high-risk individuals, including seniors, children and anyone with health conditions that could be aggravated by prolonged heat exposure.

The following cooling stations are open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. through Wednesday. The Thomas Branigan Memorial Library will remain open until 8 p.m. during its normal hours:

• Frank O’Brien Papen Community Center, 304 W. Bell Ave. | (575) 528-2455
• Henry R. Benavidez Community Center, 1045 McClure Road | (575) 541-2006
• Meerscheidt Recreation Center, 1600 E. Hadley Ave. | (575) 541-2563
• Munson Center, 975 S. Mesquite St. | (575) 541-3000
• Sage Café, 6121 Reynolds Drive | (575) 528-3151
• Thomas Branigan Memorial Library, 200 E. Picacho Ave. | (575) 528-4000

Residents are encouraged to call ahead to confirm availability.

More at Branigan: Las Cruces library to screen rare regional Western and preview new documentary

Officials urge the public to stay hydrated, remain indoors during peak heat hours, and check on elderly neighbors, pets and those who may not have access to air conditioning. Outdoor workers and others spending extended time outside should take frequent breaks and wear light, loose-fitting clothing.

Know the signs of heat-related illness

Heat exhaustion symptoms include headache, dizziness, weakness, confusion, fainting and nausea.
Heat stroke is more serious and may cause hot, dry skin, confusion, unconsciousness or seizures. If heat stroke is suspected, call 911 immediately.

High-risk individuals include infants, older adults, outdoor workers, people with chronic health conditions and those taking certain medications that impair heat regulation.

More safety tips and information are available at weather.gov.