Multiple cooling centers are open across Michigan’s Thumb as an extreme heat warning pushes heat index values above 105 degrees, including sites in Pigeon, Sebewaing and Huron County.
As an extreme heat warning grips Michigan’s Thumb, community spaces across the region are opening their doors as cooling centers for residents trying to escape dangerous temperatures.
The heat index is expected to exceed 105 degrees, raising the risk of heat-related illness for people without reliable air conditioning and for anyone spending time outdoors.
The Lakers Legacy Center in Pigeon is operating as a cooling station and offering access to its lobby, along with activities including coffee, cards, knitting, sewing, a gym, court and track.
The Sebewaing Township Library has also opened its community room so residents can cool off and get water. The Huron County Senior Center is open as another cooling location.
A separate report published earlier in the week said the Huron Youth Center in Elkton opened as a cooling center during the same heat warning. That report said the center was open from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. on June 30, July 1 and July 2, following a $40,000 HVAC renovation completed in 2024.
Residents looking for more options can check Michigan 211 at mi211.org for nearby cooling centers.
Public health risk
Officials and health guidance commonly warn that heat index values above 105 degrees can become dangerous quickly, especially for older adults, children, people with chronic health conditions and those working outdoors.
The cooling sites are filling a public-service role as local institutions respond to the warning with spaces where residents can rest, hydrate and get out of the heat.
Where to go
- Lakers Legacy Center, Pigeon
- Sebewaing Township Library
- Huron County Senior Center
- Huron Youth Center, Elkton
More sites may be added if the heat warning continues or conditions worsen.
Revision note
Initial automated publication.