New Bedford Opens Cooling Centers, Extends Lifeguard Coverage for Heat Wave

NEW BEDFORD — As southern New England goes under a National Weather Service heat advisory starting today through Friday night, New Bedford officials say the city will extend lifeguard coverage at its beaches and open cooling centers through the weekend.

A release from city administrators on Thursday stated that heat index values of up to 99 degrees are forecast for New Bedford, with the current advisory likely to be extended to Saturday or Sunday.

All New Bedford public libraries will be designated as cooling centers with air conditioning and staff on hand to help residents keep cool, according to the release.

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Operating hours at the main library branch at 613 Pleasant St. and the Wilks branch at 1911 Acushnet Ave. will be extended to 9 a.m. - 8 p.m. on Friday and Saturday.

Both branches will also open from noon until 6 p.m. on Sunday.

Other library branch operating hours are available on the city website at www.newbedford-ma.gov/library/.

Ahead of the crowds expected at New Bedford's city beaches, lifeguard coverage will also be extended at East and West Beach until 7 p.m. starting Thursday and going through Sunday, the release states.

Residents are also encouraged to help keep their friends and family safe by checking on elderly neighbors, children, or those with health conditions.

Officials also encourage residents to keep hydrated and stay out of the sun or in an air conditioned room, reschedule strenuous activities to early morning or late evening, and be aware of the signs of heat stroke, which can be fatal.

Kids and pets should never be left unattended in vehicles.

Heat safety tips for both people and pets are available on the city's website.