The City of Pembroke Pines is reminding residents that a public cooling center will open at the South Regional/Broward College Library, 7300 Pines Blvd., when extreme heat threatens public safety.
When the cooling center will open
The center is activated when the National Weather Service issues an excessive heat warning and the heat index is expected to reach 110°F or higher for at least two hours, city officials said in a social media post. The heat index combines air temperature and humidity to reflect how hot conditions feel.
| Trigger | Threshold |
|---|---|
| Excessive heat warning (NWS) | Issued by NWS Miami |
| Heat index forecast | 110°F or higher for ≥ 2 hours |
What residents should know
The cooling center is a free, air-conditioned public space available during qualifying extreme heat events. City officials urged residents to take standard precautions to avoid heat-related illness and to check on vulnerable neighbors.
- Location: South Regional/Broward College Library, 7300 Pines Blvd.
- Activation: When NWS issues an excessive heat warning and heat index meets the 110°F/2-hour criterion
- Cost: Free to the public while open
"Cooling centers are free, air-conditioned public spaces that open during extreme heat waves."
Officials reminded residents to stay hydrated, limit outdoor activity during the hottest hours, and wear lightweight clothing. They also advised checking on older adults, young children and others who may be more vulnerable to extreme heat, following guidance from the National Weather Service.
Local context and consequences
South Florida has seen repeated heat advisories in recent seasons. For Pembroke Pines residents, the city-run cooling center provides a short-term refuge during peak danger periods, but it is not a substitute for long-term measures such as reliable home cooling, access to water, and community outreach to those with limited mobility or chronic health conditions.
Anyone relying on the cooling center should monitor forecasts and local advisories from the National Weather Service for timing and duration of openings. The city posts activation notices on its official channels when conditions meet the established thresholds.
For official criteria and safety tips, residents can consult the National Weather Service Miami office and the City of Pembroke Pines communications on social media.
