With Triple-Digit Heat on the Way, City of Albuquerque Reminds Residents How to Stay Cool and Safe

With temperatures forecasted to hit the triple digits this weekend, the City of Albuquerque is sharing ways to help residents stay cool and safe. There are free and low-cost resources available across the city, from splash pads and pools to shelter and 24/7 transportation.

“Our city has strong systems in place to deal with extreme heat,” said Mayor Tim Keller. “We’re making sure that every Albuquerque resident — housed or unhoused — has a way to cool down, stay healthy, and stay safe.”

Expanded Shelter and Services for Unhoused Residents

The City continues to expand its Gateway Network — a system of shelter, treatment, and services, to help people experiencing homelessness get what they need, including a safe, cool place to stay.

All our Gateways are open 24/7 to provide not just a place to rest, but also access to meals, medical support, treatment, and connections to long-term housing.

Need a Ride?

Albuquerque Community Safety (ACS) is available to assist with emergency transportation for individuals in danger due to extreme heat. If someone is experiencing a heat-related emergency, please call 911 immediately.

Day Shelters and Supply Distribution:

• Our Health, Housing and Home Homelessness department is working with local day shelters and first responders to distribute: 
• Water bottles
• Sunscreen
• Cooling towels
• Day shelters offering these supplies include:
• God’s Warehouse
• Good Shepherd
• The Rock at Noonday
• Compassion Center
• First Nations
• HopeWorks
• Healthcare for the Homeless

Health and Social Services Centers are open throughout the city. These offer a cool place to rest, plus services like:

• Utility and rental assistance
• Food boxes
• Clothing and hygiene items

Senior and community centers and libraries are also available for people needing a break from the heat.

Splash Pads and Pools

The City’s public pools and splash pads are open and ready to help residents cool down. Locations are available across Albuquerque.

New Law: Cooling Required in Rental Homes

A new city ordinance, sponsored by Councilor Tammy Fiebelkorn, now requires all rental units in Albuquerque to have working cooling systems. That means landlords must provide and maintain air conditioning or other effective cooling options. 

If your rental does not have cooling, you can report violations to 311.

Heat Safety Tips

Every summer, tens of thousands of people nationwide end up in the ER because of heat-related illness, see AFR's Heat Safety Tips. Know the signs:

Heat Stroke:

• Body temperature of 103°F or higher
• Nausea
• Dizziness
• Strong, rapid pulse

Heat Exhaustion:

• Heavy sweating
• Muscle cramps
• Clammy skin
• Weak, fast pulse

To prevent heat illness:

• Drink lots of water
• Wear sunscreen, light clothing, and a hat
• Never leave children or pets in parked cars — inside temps can rise to 170°F in minutes
• Avoid midday hikes; try to go early

Emergency Plans and How You Can Help

If there are power outages, the City is ready to stand up emergency shelters. ACS and first responders will canvas neighborhoods and knock on doors to check on residents.

Want to support this work? HHH is asking for donations of:

• Sunscreen
• Water bottles
• Cooling towels
• Other hot weather supplies

You can donate online or shop the Amazon Wishlist.

Stay Informed and Stay Safe

• In emergencies: Call 911
• For info or non-emergency help: Call 311 or visit cabq.gov

Whether you’re splashing at a park, resting at a shelter, or checking in on a neighbor — let’s help each other stay cool this summer.