Central Ohioans looking to escape the heat this week can cool off at any of the Columbus Metropolitan Library's 23 air-conditioned locations as temperatures climb into the mid-90s.
The library announced
Sept. 2 that its branches are open to anyone seeking relief from the heat as a heat advisory remains in effect through 8 p.m. Sept. 3 across central Ohio.
The National Weather Service in Wilmington said heat index values could reach 102 degrees across parts of Ohio, Indiana and Kentucky, including Franklin and surrounding central Ohio counties.
Columbus libraries offer relief during heat advisory
All 23 Columbus Metropolitan Library locations are air-conditioned and offer seating, free Wi-Fi, public computers with internet access and books and magazines, according to the library system.
Visitors may also participate in programs and events offered at the branches.
Hours vary by location. Addresses and hours for all 23 branches are available on the Columbus Metropolitan Library website, columbuslibrary.org.
The weather service recommends staying in air-conditioned spaces, drinking plenty of fluids and avoiding prolonged time in the sun during the heat advisory. People should also check on relatives and neighbors and limit strenuous outdoor activities to the morning or evening when possible.
How hot will it get in Columbus this week?
Columbus is expected to reach a high near 95 degrees Sept. 2, with heat index values as high as 100, according to the weather service. Skies are expected to remain sunny before temperatures fall to around 75 degrees overnight.
Another hot day is expected Sept. 3, with a high near 94 degrees and heat index values again reaching around 100. A chance of thunderstorms enters the forecast in the late afternoon and continues into the evening.
Temperatures are expected to gradually cool heading into the weekend.
On Sept. 4, the high is forecast near 90 degrees, with a 50% chance of showers and thunderstorms. Sept. 5 is expected to reach 86 degrees before the high falls to around 83 degrees on Sept. 5.
The heat advisory is scheduled to expire at 8 p.m. Sept. 3.
Trending reporter Amani Bayo can be reached at abayo@dispatch.com.
This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: Need to escape the Columbus heat? 23 libraries offer a place to cool off
