SPARTANBURG, S.C.With triple-digit temperatures baking the Upstate, emergency crews across Spartanburg County are stepping up efforts to protect vulnerable residents. Cooling centers are now open, offering food, water, and shelter from the dangerous heat wave expected to last through the week.
Heat Index Prompts Emergency Response
As theheat index rises well above actual temperatures, local emergency volunteers are urging people to stay indoors and hydrated. TheCitizens Emergency Response Teamopened cooling centers in Spartanburg and surrounding areas, prioritizing public safety as heat-related illnesses remain a serious risk.
We put up a little entertainment. We give food and snacks, saidJerry Hughes, a volunteer with the team. Opening a place where people that would be suffering can go to get out of the heat, find food and water, and be safe is always a positive thing.
The move comes as the National Weather Service continues to issue advisories warning of heat stroke and exhaustion risks especially for children, seniors, and outdoor workers.
Cooling Center Details and Hours
Spartanburg County s public cooling centeris located at701 Saxon Aveand is opendaily from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. through Thursday. The facility offers air-conditioned space, hydration stations, and snacks.
You can also find more information and updates atWSPA s reportandSpartanburg s cooling center activities.
AC Failures Surge Across the Region
With more people staying indoors,air conditioning systems are failing under the strain, and service calls have surged.John Chisholm, owner of Chisholm Plumbing, Air and Electric, said they ve seen a major uptick in customer demand.
We ve noticed a definite spike in heat and calls and volume, he said. It s been hotter this year at least for us and houses can quickly reach the 80s or 90s when units fail.
Chisholm noted that working in attics during the day has become a serious challenge for technicians, withinterior attic temps hitting 130 160 F. Some repair crews are now asking customers if they can arrive as early as 5 a.m. to avoid midday extremes.
Public Health and Safety Reminder
Health officials are reminding residents to check on elderly neighbors, keep pets inside, and avoid strenuous outdoor activities during peak hours. Dehydration, dizziness, and headaches can be early signs of heat-related illness.
If you re without AC or struggling to stay cool,visit a local cooling center or contact emergency volunteers for guidance.
Have you visited a local cooling center or faced issues with your AC during the heat wave? Share your experience or photos with us atSaludaStandard-Sentinel.com.
