The City of Savannah, in collaboration with partner agencies, is providing facilities to help residents stay cool as heat index values are expected to reach 110 degrees today. The National Weather Service issued a heat advisory at 10:26 a.m., which will remain in effect until 8 p.m.
Residents are advised to drink plenty of fluids, remain in air-conditioned spaces, avoid direct sunlight, and check on relatives and neighbors. It is crucial that young children and pets are not left unattended in vehicles.
For those working or spending time outdoors, it is recommended to reschedule strenuous activities for early morning or evening hours and wear lightweight clothing.
City community centers available today include Tompkins Regional Center, Windsor Forest Regional Center, W.W. Law Regional Center, and John S. Delaware Regional Center from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Pools such as Bowles C. Ford Pool and Daffin Pool will operate between 1:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. & 4:30 p.m. – 6 p.m., while splashpads like Hudson Hill Splashpad and Hull Park Splashpad will be open from 10 a.m. – 8 p.m.
Homeless service providers Union Mission and Come as You Are Deliverance Ministry are also available today from the morning until late afternoon.
In addition to these measures, the City of Savannah is enforcing equine heat safety ordinances affecting local tour companies. Horse-drawn carriages are prohibited from operating when the heat index exceeds 110 degrees or when temperatures reach 95 degrees. Horses must either stay at their stands or return safely to their stables if possible.
The Office of Special Events, Film, and Tourism ensures compliance with these rules, reminding all local horse carriage tour businesses of the regulations.
