The City of Mesa has activated multiple cooling centers across the area in response to an early stretch of extreme heat that is bringing record-breaking temperatures to the region. City officials say the decision was made to help protect residents, especially those who are most vulnerable to heat-related illnesses, by providing safe, air-conditioned spaces and access to water.
Several locations have been opened as part of this effort. The Stapley Health Center operated by Terros Health at 1111 South Stapley Drive is offering extended hours, operating Monday through Thursday from 7:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Friday through Saturday from 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Another site, Friends at First Outreach Center located at 15 East 1st Avenue, is open on Mondays and Thursdays from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m. In addition, the MesaCAN site operated by A New Leaf at 635 East Broadway is available Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Officials say these cooling centers will remain open through the end of September to ensure ongoing access to relief during the hottest months of the year. Although Mesa’s typical heat safety season usually runs from May through September, this year’s unusually early and intense temperatures prompted the city to begin precautions sooner than normal.
Mesa Mayor Mark Freeman emphasized the importance of providing these services early, noting that triple-digit temperatures have arrived weeks ahead of schedule. He also encouraged residents to check on neighbors, family members, and friends who may be at higher risk, particularly those who are homebound or without reliable access to cooling.
In addition to cooling centers, the city is also maintaining four hydration stations where people can refill reusable water bottles at no cost. These stations are located at the Mesa Arts Center North Studios Building at 1 East Main Street, the Mesa Red Mountain Library at 635 North Power Road, Paz de Cristo at 424 West Broadway Road, and Pioneer Park at 526 East Main Street. Each site has designated hours of operation, with some open daily and others following weekday schedules.
City officials are also directing residents to additional heat safety resources available online, including educational materials, preparedness guidance, and assistance programs for individuals with limited income. These resources are designed to help people stay safe during extreme weather and reduce the risk of heat-related health issues.
As temperatures continue to rise, Mesa leaders say the combination of cooling centers, hydration stations, and community outreach is part of a broader effort to ensure residents have the support they need to stay safe throughout the extended heat season.
