JACKSON, Wyo. — This weekend, Jackson Hole is on track to experience record-setting heat, with temperatures expected to climb into the high 90s.
This kind of intense heat is historically rare for the valley; Teton County Emergency Management (TCEM) notes that this is the first time ever that the National Weather Service has issued an extreme heat watch for Jackson Hole. Many local homes do not have air conditioning. This weekend, those without access to air conditioning could be at risk for heat-related illnesses; TCEM has compiled a list of local buildings that will open their doors to offer temporary relief from the heat:
- The Good Samaritan Mission at 285 W. Pearl Ave. offers free shelter to anyone who wishes to rest in the dining room, plus free refreshments such as water, Gatorade, and snacks, and a small ice machine. Open from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Saturday, Sunday and Monday.
- The Teton County/Jackson Community Recreation Center at 220 North King Street is available as a temporary cooling location for those seeking relief from the heat. Remember that guests who wish to use Rec Center amenities (like the gym and splash pad) will be required to pay the applicable admission fee. The aquatics center remains closed for construction. The Rec Center is open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday and from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Monday.
- The Teton County Library’s Jackson branch at 125 Virginian Ln. has expanded its hours to help folks beat the heat this weekend. PAWS has made crates and disposable water bowls available for use there; well-behaved dogs are welcome if heat relief is needed. Open on Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; on Sunday from noon to 5 p.m.; and on Monday from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Note that the Library is not typically open on Sundays, so visitors that day should enter through the north door adjacent to parking lot.
- The Teton County Library’s Alta branch at 50 Alta School Road will be open on Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and closed on Sunday and Monday.
- The Senior Center of Jackson Hole at 830 E. Hansen Ave. will be closed Saturday and Sunday but will be open on Monday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. to offer water, ice water and seating.
- The Teton County Fairgrounds Community Building at 305 W. Snow King Ave. will be closed Saturday and Sunday but will be open on Monday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Populations most vulnerable to heat risks include older adults, young children, outdoor workers, recreationists, individuals experiencing homelessness, and those without access to adequate cooling.
TCEM recommends taking the following protective actions:
- Drink plenty of fluids.
- Wear light-colored clothing.
- Stay in an air-conditioned room or visit a public building with air conditioning (see list above).
- Stay out of the sun and limit outdoor activity during the hottest part of the day.
- Put extra water in personal vehicles.
- Never leave people or pets in a closed car.
- Keep personal vehicle gas tanks above half-full. Running vehicle air conditioning can use a lot of fuel.
- Know and recognize the signs of heat-related illness. These can include dizziness, heavy sweating, nausea, weakness, confusion, and even becoming unconscious.
- Check up on relatives and neighbors.
Keep an eye on the forecast at weather.gov/riw. To view the latest national Heat Risk information, visit https://www.wpc.ncep.noaa.gov/heatrisk/.
