As summer temperatures rise and the threat of extreme heat becomes more pronounced, Seattle is taking proactive measures to safeguard its residents. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has awarded the city a $5.5 million grant aimed at mitigating hazards associated with extreme heat and wildfire smoke, marking a significant step in the fight against climate change impacts.
This funding will facilitate the establishment of cooling and clean-air centers at five library branches located in the U-District, Columbia City, Fremont, Queen Anne, and West Seattle. These centers will provide residents with a safe refuge during heat waves, offering relief from soaring temperatures and poor air quality caused by wildfire smoke.
This grant represents the first cooling center award issued in Washington state and is the largest amount Seattle has ever received under FEMA’s mitigation grant program. City officials and community leaders view this funding as a vital resource in enhancing public safety and resilience against climate-related disasters.
“For those who have lived in Seattle for some time, we know the impacts of climate change. They are becoming more frequent and more pronounced,” said Tom Fay, Seattle Chief Librarian. “This grant will help us create safe spaces for our community during extreme weather events and ensure that everyone has access to clean air and cooling resources.”
As heat waves continue to lengthen and intensify, the establishment of these centers is crucial for supporting vulnerable populations, including the elderly and those with pre-existing health conditions. The initiative also addresses the growing concern over air quality during wildfire season, which has become an alarming issue in the Pacific Northwest.
City officials are committed to using the grant money not only for immediate relief but also to develop long-term strategies for disaster preparedness and community resilience. The creation of safe spaces is part of a broader effort to equip Seattle’s infrastructure to handle the challenges posed by climate change effectively.
