As Southern California temperatures rise past the mid-90s, El Monte cooling centers and similar facilities in nearby cities are activated to help residents escape the heat. These cooling centers were started to protect older adults, children, and those without air conditioning from heat-related illness and dehydration.
During a heat advisory or an excessive heat warning issued by the National Weather Service, the City of El Monte and Los Angeles County identify cooling centers for public use. On July 9, 2025, El Monte announced the opening of emergency cooling centers in response to forecasts predicting extreme temperatures. Specific addresses for those centers were not listed in the initial alert, but residents can call 211 for details or check the city’s website and social media for updates.
Rosemead Opens Community Site
Rosemead residents can rely on the Community Recreation Center at 3936 North Muscatel Avenue. This location activates when temperatures reach or exceed 95 degrees or a heat advisory is declared. The center remains open from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. on activation days.
According to the City of Rosemead, this site is equipped to provide air-conditioned space, seating, and water. Residents are encouraged to bring personal items such as medication, snacks, and reading materials.
South El Monte and Baldwin Park Locations
South El Monte uses its Senior Center at 1556 Central Avenue as the primary cooling center. The standard schedule is Monday through Thursday from noon to 5 p.m. and Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. When temperatures rise above 97 degrees, the center opens on weekends from noon to 5 p.m.
Baldwin Park residents can visit the Baldwin Park Library during heat events. The library has previously extended hours on weekends and holidays when heat waves were forecast. The exact hours may vary and can be confirmed by calling 211 or visiting the Los Angeles County Library website.
Irwindale and Temple City Access
Irwindale maintains a cooling center at the Irwindale Senior Center, 16116 Arrow Highway. During heat advisories, the center is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Residents are asked to check availability before visiting, as hours may change during emergency situations.
Temple City does not operate a city-specific cooling center. Residents typically rely on county-operated libraries or nearby city centers, including locations in El Monte, Baldwin Park, and South El Monte. Those in Temple City are advised to call 211 to locate the nearest facility when a heat alert is active.
Why Cooling Centers Were Started
Cooling centers exist to provide relief to vulnerable residents during extreme heat. High temperatures can increase the risk of heat stroke, dehydration, and other medical emergencies, particularly for seniors, young children, and people with chronic health conditions. Public cooling centers offer a safe environment for community members to avoid dangerous heat exposure.
Los Angeles County and participating cities determine activation based on weather forecasts and advisories. Typically, centers open when temperatures approach the mid-90s or higher. The El Monte cooling centers are part of this regional effort to prevent heat-related emergencies and save lives.
How to Find a Cooling Center
The most reliable way to find an active cooling center is to call 211 or visit the Los Angeles County Office of Emergency Management website. Each city may also post activation notices on its website or social media platforms.
When visiting a cooling center, residents should bring any essential items they may need for several hours, including medications and identification. Children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
For El Monte cooling centers and other area locations, contact 211 or check official city updates to confirm operating hours and entry requirements before arrival.
