With temperatures expected to soar this weekend, the City of Charleston is advising residents to take necessary precautions against extreme heat. According to the National Weather Service, the region will experience high temperatures through Sunday, with heat-index values potentially exceeding 105 degrees Fahrenheit.
Forecasts predict mostly sunny and humid weather with a high of 93°F on Friday, July 25; partly sunny conditions with a high of 97°F on Saturday, July 26; and mostly sunny skies reaching up to 98°F on Sunday, July 27. These conditions pose risks such as dehydration, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke, particularly for children, older adults, and those with health vulnerabilities.
To assist residents in staying cool, public cooling facilities are available throughout Charleston. All city pools are open to residents with varying hours by location. These include the Martin Luther King Jr. Pool (843-724-7346), W.L. Stephens Pool (843-769-8261), Herbert Hassell Pool (843-724-7344), and James Island Pool (843-795-5678).
Air-conditioned recreation centers also provide respite from the heat. Facilities offering seating and water fountains include the James Island Recreation Complex, Bees Landing Recreation Center, Daniel Island Recreation Center, Arthur W. Christopher Community Center, St. Julian Devine Community Center, and Shaw Community Center.
The Hope Center at 529 Meeting St., Charleston provides additional resources like cold water and showers from Monday to Wednesday between 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Friday from 9 a.m. to noon.
Residents are advised to drink water frequently—8 ounces every 15–20 minutes—and avoid strenuous outdoor activities during peak afternoon hours. Light-colored clothing is recommended along with ensuring children or pets are not left in vehicles unattended.
The city’s interactive cooling center map can be used to locate nearby facilities with specific amenities. The Lowcountry Heat Action Plan Toolkit is also available for guidance on managing heat-related hazards.
