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Richmond, VA — As dangerously high temperatures impact the region, the City of Richmond is taking a series of proactive steps to protect the health and safety of residents, visitors, employees, and first responders during the ongoing heatwave.
Extreme heat remains one of the leading weather-related causes of illness and death in the United States, particularly among older adults, young children, individuals experiencing homelessness, and those with chronic medical conditions. City officials are urging all residents to take precautions, stay hydrated, limit outdoor activity during peak afternoon hours, and check on neighbors, family members, and friends who may be especially vulnerable.
“As part of the City's response, Richmond has activated cooling resources and is working closely with public safety agencies, community organizations, and service providers to help all residents stay safe throughout the duration of the extreme heat event,” said Director of Neighborhood and Community Services Tiffany Ford. “Residents may find respite from the heat at one of many cooling centers, public pools, or Richmond Public Library locations.” These include:
- The Salvation Army-operated cooling center at 1900 Chamberlayne Avenue (open at 11a.m. on Thursday, July 2 through 8a.m. on Sunday, July 5. Note that the cooling center will temporarily close each morning from 8a.m. to 10a.m. for shelter cleaning, and will reopen at 10a.m., except on Thursday when it will initially open at 11a.m.
- On Thursday, July 2, residents may visit Southside Place, the Community Resource and Training Center (CRTC), Richmond Public Libraries, and City public pools during regular operation hours.
Additional information on cooling resources can be found at https://rva.gov/strategic-communications/news/stay-cool-summer-city-richmond
The City is also taking measures to reduce its own impact on energy demand, recognizing that periods of extreme temperatures place a unique demand on climate control systems. As such, building automation systems in select City-owned properties will temporarily adjust setpoints to reduce energy demand. Employees have also been asked to do their part in reducing demand by turning off lights, unplugging non-essential equipment, and keeping exterior doors and windows closed, among other measures.
Dogwood Dell Independence Day Celebration Cancelled
After careful consideration of current weather forecasts and anticipated heat index values this weekend, the City has also announced the cancellation of its annual Fourth of July celebration scheduled for July 4, 2026, at Dogwood Dell. While the annual celebration is a cherished Richmond tradition and an important part of the Festival of Arts, as well as this year's commemoration of the nation's 250th anniversary, City leaders determined that proceeding with the event would present unacceptable health and safety risks for attendees, performers, volunteers, staff, and first responders.
"The safety and well-being of our residents will always come first," said Deputy Chief Administrative Officer for Operations Al Wiggins. "We understand how much this event means to our community and appreciate the public's understanding and support. Although we are disappointed that we are unable to move forward with this year's celebration, this decision reflects our commitment to protecting the public during this prolonged period of dangerous heat."
The City encourages residents who choose to celebrate Independence Day to do so safely by:
- Staying hydrated and avoiding prolonged outdoor exposure during the hottest parts of the day.
- Wearing lightweight, light-colored clothing and seeking air-conditioned spaces whenever possible.
- Checking on elderly neighbors, family members, and others who may be vulnerable to heat-related illness.
- Never leaving children or pets unattended in vehicles.
- Following all applicable local and state laws regarding fireworks and practicing safe holiday celebrations.
The Department of Parks, Recreation and Community Facilities extends its sincere appreciation to the residents, community partners, sponsors, volunteers, performers, and public safety personnel who invested significant time and effort in planning this year's Fourth of July celebration. Their continued partnership helps ensure Richmond remains a safe, resilient, and connected community.
Residents are encouraged to monitor City communication channels, including Richmond Ready, for information about cooling centers, heat safety resources, and any additional operational updates as weather conditions evolve.
Additional information regarding heat safety resources and future City events will be shared through the City's official communication channels.
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