As temperatures soar into the 90s this week, New York City officials have activated more than 600 cooling centers across the five boroughs to offer residents safe, air-conditioned relief.
The city is also opening its doors to pets at select sites, including libraries, senior centers and participating Petco locations.
Mayor Eric Adams and Emergency Management Commissioner Zach Iscol are urging New Yorkers to prepare for extreme heat and take advantage of available cooling resources. As climate change fuels more frequent and severe heat waves, officials are emphasizing the need for proactive planning, especially for vulnerable populations such as older adults, people with chronic or mental health conditions and those struggling with substance use.
“New York City has a plan to beat the heat — so know your ‘Cool Options,’” said Mayor Adams. “Extreme heat will not just be uncomfortable and oppressive for New Yorkers this coming week, it will be brutal and it will be dangerous. Whether it is an air-conditioned space, such as your home, a friend’s or family member’s home, a library, or a museum, find a way to stay cool.” He also reminded residents to stay hydrated, check on elderly neighbors, and ensure pets have adequate water.
Pet-friendly cooling centers
In partnership with Petco, the city has added several pet-friendly cooling centers to its network, allowing residents to bring their leashed or crated animals into designated indoor spaces. These sites include participating Queens Public Library branches and several Petco stores in the borough, such as those in Jackson Heights and Little Neck.
“Extreme heat affects pets just as much as people,” said Iscol. “We want to make sure no one—two- or four-legged—is left to suffer in unsafe conditions.”
At pet-friendly sites, residents will find designated zones with water bowls, shaded mats and safety signage. All animals must be under control at all times.
Where to find cooling centers in Queens
Residents can locate their nearest cooling center by visiting the city’s Cooling Centers Map or calling 311. Most Queens Public Library locations—excluding Elmhurst and Long Island City—are operating as cooling centers.
In addition to Queens Public Library branches and select Petco stores, a number of other venues throughout the borough are available to help residents stay safe during extreme heat. These include New York City Housing Authority (NYCHA) community rooms; senior and recreation centers operated by NYC Parks; and older adult centers funded by the Department for the Aging. Many of these facilities offer air-conditioned indoor spaces, access to water, and seating areas, providing essential relief for individuals—particularly older adults—who may not have reliable cooling options at home.
Staying safe during extreme heat
City health officials stress that extreme heat causes hundreds of heat-related illnesses and deaths annually. In an average year, about 350 New Yorkers die prematurely due to heat exposure. Pets, especially older or short-nosed breeds, are also at risk of overheating.
Tips for staying cool:
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Drink water frequently, even if you’re not thirsty
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Stay indoors during the hottest hours (typically 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.)
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Wear light, loose-fitting clothing
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Never leave pets—or people—in a parked car
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Take pets for walks early or late in the day to avoid hot pavement
Those with underlying health issues or without access to air conditioning are encouraged to spend as much time as possible in cooling centers this week.
Updates and emergency alerts are also available through the Notify NYC service. New Yorkers can sign up by texting NOTIFYNYC to 692-692 or by calling 311.
