Kirkland Shares Cooling Options As Heat Wave Arrives In Washington

KIRKLAND, WA — With four days of 90-degree weather in the forecast, Kirkland announced the opening of a cooling center Tuesday, joining library branches, beaches, splash pads and other resources available to help neighbors beat the heat.

All community members can take advantage of air conditioning at the Peter Kirk Community Center through at least Wednesday, which will be open as a cooling center between 1 p.m. and 8 p.m. Pets are welcome to come along, provided they are crated or leashed.

Residents can also visit Kirkland's two King County Library branches to cool off during the same timeframe.

The city also designated a shaded parking area outside Kirkland City Hall for members of the community living in their vehicles to catch a break from the heat, and City Hall restrooms will remain open during business hours.

Families also have several beaches and splash pads to choose from, including:

• Feriton Spur Park Splash Pads, Cross Kirkland Corridor at 5th Place South
• Kirkland Urban Splash Pads, 425 Urban Plz, Kirkland
• Houghton Beach Park, 5811 Lake Washington Blvd NE
• Marina Park, 25 Lakeshore Plaza

The National Weather Service forecasts afternoon highs in the 90s through Friday in Kirkland, increasing the risk of heat-related illnesses for people without adequate cooling and hydration.