GREENE COUNTY — As summer temperatures and humidity indexes climb across Southern Indiana, local officials are stepping in to ensure vulnerable residents have a safe, climate-controlled environment to escape the extreme weather.
The Greene County Emergency Management Agency has officially activated its local heat-relief strategy and released a designated list of public cooling centers distributed throughout the county.
For residents in the central part of the county, the Bloomfield Town Park South Shelter House has been fully prepared and opened as a primary cooling station. The shelter house will remain open to the public daily from 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. until further notice, offering a reliable place to rest and cool down during the peak heating hours of the day.
Community Libraries Step In to Help
Recognizing that regional access is critical during a prolonged heatwave, emergency officials have coordinated with local municipal resources in other surrounding Greene County communities.
Residents living outside of the Bloomfield area are highly encouraged to utilize their local public library branches during normal business hours to beat the heat. These public spaces provide accessible air conditioning, seating, and drinking water for anyone needing a reprieve from severe home temperatures.
Recognizing Heat-Related Illnesses and Finding Help
Emergency management officials are urging neighbors to check in on the elderly, infants, and individuals without adequate residential air conditioning.
The state reminds Hoosiers that electric fans should not be relied upon as a primary cooling device during excessive heat events, as they circulate air but do not efficiently lower core body temperature.
If you or someone you know needs additional assistance or is looking for nearby facilities, Indiana residents can dial 2-1-1 or visit IN211.org at any time. The free state service provides an up-to-date, searchable database of regional cooling centers, expanded operation hours, and localized emergency transportation options.
