As Southern California experiences an intense heat wave, Los Angeles city and county leaders are working diligently to ensure the safety and well-being of residents, particularly those experiencing homelessness. The extreme temperatures pose a significant health risk, prompting the city of Los Angeles to open five cooling centers, operating from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. through at least Friday. These centers provide a safe and cool refuge for individuals seeking respite from the scorching heat.
Laura Harwood, a homeless outreach worker with Hope the Mission, highlights the importance of these cooling centers, stating, “It’s really important that people have a place they can go. We have cooling centers all around the city, several in the Valley where it’s going to be hotter.” Harwood emphasizes the strategic use of the heat wave as an opportunity to connect with individuals experiencing homelessness, offering them access to essential resources and encouraging them to seek shelter.
“We do use the heat as a tactic, and we let them know there is a heat wave and that they will have air-conditioning and food, and a shower, a bed, if they would go to one of our interim housing sites.”
Narek Pogosyan, who has been living on the streets for six years, expressed his gratitude for the availability of cooling centers and the promise of housing. “AC, wow, what a dream come true,” he said.
The extreme heat is expected to persist through the weekend, with Friday and Saturday anticipated to be the hottest days. Temperatures are projected to gradually increase throughout the week, with even coastal areas experiencing temperatures 3 to 6 degrees above normal. An excessive heat warning has been issued for the western San Fernando Valley, effective from Tuesday morning until 8 p.m. Saturday. Forecasters predict temperatures in this region could soar to as high as 118 degrees.
The city’s proactive response to the heat wave demonstrates its commitment to protecting vulnerable populations and ensuring the well-being of all residents during these challenging conditions.
