BRAZOS COUNTY, Texas — While much of the Brazos Valley and the State of Texas has battled immense triple digit temperatures, several cities across the state have opened cooling centers.
However, both the City of Bryan and the City of College Station have foregone opening cooling centers, as of now.
Both cities have shared statements to KAGS News as to why they've opted not to open a cooling center within city limits at this time.
"The City of Bryan Emergency Management Coordinator (EMC) is working closely in partnership with Brazos County Health District, Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster, National Weather Service, American Red Cross, the local hospitals, city officials, public safety, Brazos Transit District, non-government organizations, and the EMCs for the city of College Station, Brazos County, and Texas A&M University who are all collaboratively working together regarding severe weather thresholds. We are monitoring the weather, assessing heat-related 9-1-1 and 2-1-1 call data, discussing with the region their plans to activate, using historical data to drive decision making, and partnering with local organizations to establish turn-key cooling centers at their facilities should an emergency need be determined. We recommend calling 2-1-1 for individual heat-related needs. There are many locations that are open during peak heat times that folks can seek respite from the heat. Those experiencing homelessness can reach out to Twin City Mission who can provide resources and information," said Chris Lamb with the Bryan Fire Department.
"The City of College Station is working closely with local health and public safety officials, relief organizations, and other governmental entities in assessing weather conditions and determining emergency needs. In the meantime, we remind everyone to drink plenty of fluids, stay out of the sun, and check on their neighbors and relatives. We would also like to remind everyone that there are public buildings that are open during peak heat times where community members can seek relief from the heat. For individual heat-related needs, call 2-1-1. Anyone experiencing homelessness can contact Twin City Mission at 979-822-7511," said Tradd Mills, the Emergency Management Coordinator for College Station.
As both cities receive updates about our weather conditions, they'll continue to evaluate the need for a cooling center in the future.
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