Dade County Opens Cooling Shelters Through Sunday as Extreme Heat Warning Continues
TRENTON, Ga. — Dade County officials have opened the county’s storm shelters as cooling centers to help residents escape dangerous heat expected to continue through the weekend.
Dade County Executive Don Townsend has ordered all county storm shelters to remain open as cooling shelters through Sunday at 6:00 p.m. in response to the Extreme Heat Warning issued by the National Weather Service.
Forecasters say heat index values could reach 108 to 111 degrees during the afternoon hours, creating dangerous conditions for anyone spending extended time outdoors.
Residents who do not have adequate air conditioning, as well as senior citizens, those with medical conditions, and anyone vulnerable to the extreme heat, are encouraged to take advantage of the cooling shelters.
The following locations are open:
- Dade County Sports Complex
9622 U.S. Highway 11
Trenton, GA 30752 - South Dade Community Shelter
265 School Street
Rising Fawn, GA 30738 - Sand Mountain Community Shelter
249 Davis School Road
Trenton, GA 30752
County officials note that all three facilities are FEMA-approved storm shelters and are fully operational.
The National Weather Service urges everyone to stay hydrated, limit strenuous outdoor activities during the hottest part of the day, wear lightweight clothing, and check on elderly family members, neighbors, and others who may be at risk of heat-related illness.
Anyone experiencing signs of heat stroke, including confusion, loss of consciousness, or a high body temperature, should seek immediate medical attention by calling 911.
Dade County officials are encouraging residents to share this information to help ensure anyone needing relief from the dangerous heat knows that cooling shelters are available.
