Merritt cooling centre expected to close after Wednesday

The City of Merritt’s cooling centre at the Civic Centre (1750 Mamette Avenue) will be open again on Wednesday from 11-6, for will likely be the last day.

“We’ve had several extreme heat days here in Merritt, and it’s looking like it’s starting to come down towards our ordinary hot summers. The City of Merritt cooling centre run out of the Civic Centre will be open again 11am to 6pm on Wednesday June 30^th. This was opened as a response to the heat crisis, but at this time City staff do not anticipate it being open on Canada Day or beyond. The forecast for early July is currently calling for daytime highs dropping below 40C for the first time since last week,” stated Director of Corporate Services Greg Lowis.

“We do of course live in a very hot, dry climate, and so we always encourage Merritonians to watch out for their friends, family, and neighbours, and to make sure they stay hydrated, avoid being outside in the hottest parts of the day, and take advantage of resources like our shady parks, or access to the river to stay cool,” added Lowis.

Temperatures on Friday are currently forecast to hit highs of 31.