Cooling Center Opens In Columbia

Columbia, CA – Has it been hot enough for you?

Temperatures are expected to remain in the triple digits over the next several days. The National Weather Service reports that the warmest days are expected to be today and tomorrow. The temperature in downtown Sonora is expected to reach 105 degrees.

Because of the heat, the Columbia Volunteer Fire Company has opened a cooling station at the Fire House on the corner of Jackson and Bigler Streets in Columbia. Fire Chief Jim Helms says the cooling station will remain open 24/7 during the duration of the heat wave. It is open to everyone, regardless of where they live. Chief Helms notes that they are not set up for sleeping, but do have space for people that simply need a break.

As reported earlier, Tuolumne County has a list of other public locations for people to get a break from the heat. The Sonora Main Library, located on Greenley Road, is open Tuesday through Saturday, from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, but closed on Sunday and Monday. The Tuolumne County Senior Center, also on Greenley Road, is open from Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM.

Residents in Calaveras County can stop by public buildings that are open during regular business hours. For more information on Calaveras County, you can contact the Department of Public Health at 754-6460.