Birmingham Activates Cooling Stations for Heat

As summer temperatures climb across Central Alabama, the City of Birmingham is activating a network of cooling stations to help residents stay safe during periods of extreme heat.

Under the city's heat response plan, cooling stations will open whenever temperatures reach 95 degrees or higher, including the heat index, often referred to as the "feels like" temperature. The sites provide air-conditioned spaces where residents can cool off, drink water, and reduce the risk of heat-related illness.

The initiative is aimed at protecting Birmingham's most vulnerable residents, including senior citizens, people experiencing homelessness, families without reliable air conditioning, and others who may need refuge from dangerous heat conditions.

“Extreme heat can be more than uncomfortable; it can be life-threatening,” said Alanah Melton, Director of Unhoused Strategies for the City of Birmingham. “We want every resident to know there are safe, welcoming places throughout Birmingham where they can find relief, stay hydrated, and protect their health during periods of excessive heat.”

The cooling station network spans every quadrant of the city and includes public libraries, recreation centers, nonprofit organizations, and service providers. The effort builds on Birmingham's broader partnership with community groups that provide shelter and emergency services during severe weather events.

City officials are also urging residents to check on elderly relatives, neighbors, and friends during heat advisories. Anyone experiencing symptoms of heat exhaustion or heat stroke should seek immediate medical attention.

Residents can find updated information on cooling station locations and hours through the City of Birmingham's homelessness services webpage and official social media channels. Birmingham has also encouraged community support efforts, including recent water drives to help stock local shelters and cooling stations during the summer months.

Cooling Station Locations and Hours

CENTRAL

• Birmingham Public Library
  • 2100 Park Place
  • Monday, Wednesday-Saturday: 9 a.m.-6 p.m.
  • Tuesday: 9 a.m.-8 p.m.
• Faith Chapel Care Center
  • 921 2nd Ave. North
  • Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday: 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
• Pathways
  • 409 Richard Arrington Jr. Blvd. North
  • Monday-Friday: 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
• Firehouse Ministries
  • 626 2nd Ave. North
  • Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday, Sunday: 2-5 p.m.

NORTH

• North Birmingham Library
  • 2501 31st Ave. N.
  • Monday-Friday: 9 a.m.-6 p.m.
  • Tuesday: 9 a.m.-8 p.m.
• Fitness Center
  • 421 Reverend Abraham Woods Jr. Blvd.
  • Monday-Friday: 5:30 a.m.-7:30 p.m.
  • Saturday: 8 a.m.-1 p.m.
  • Sunday: Closed

WEST

• Five Points West Library
  • 4812 Avenue W
  • Monday-Friday: 9 a.m.-6 p.m.
• One Roof
  • 730 8th Ave. West
  • Daily: 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

SOUTH

• Harrison Recreation Center
  • 901 17th St. SW
  • Monday: Noon-5:30 p.m.
  • Tuesday: Noon-5:30 p.m.
  • Wednesday: Noon-5:30 p.m.
  • Thursday: 9:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m.
  • Friday: Noon-5:30 p.m.
  • Saturday: Noon-5:30 p.m.
  • Sunday: Noon-5:30 p.m.
• Southside Library
  • 1814 11th Ave. South
  • Monday-Friday: 9 a.m.-6 p.m.

EAST

• Woodlawn Library
  • 5709 1st Ave. North
  • Monday-Friday: 9 a.m.-6 p.m.