With temperatures soaring into the triple digits, the City of Albuquerque is equipping residents with the best ways to stay safe from extreme heat this summer.
City officials are urging the community to take all necessary precautions and to take advantage of the available resources, such as expanded shelter options and splash pads, among others.
“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.”
Shelters and Support for Vulnerable Populations
The city is expanding its response through the Gateway Network — a 24/7 shelter and services system designed to help individuals experiencing homelessness, especially during the upcoming hot summer months.
These shelters not only provide a cool place to rest, but also access to food, medical care, treatment services and pathways to long-term housing.
Albuquerque Community Safety (ACS) is also on alert to provide emergency transportation to anyone in danger due to the heat.
In life-threatening situations due to extreme heat, residents are encouraged to call 911.
Cooling Centers and Supply Distribution
To support the city’s unhoused population and other vulnerable groups, the City’s Health, Housing and Homelessness (HHH) department is partnering with local day shelters to distribute essential supplies like water bottles, sunscreen, and cooling towels.
Participating locations include God’s Warehouse, Good Shepherd, The Rock at Noonday, Compassion Center, First Nations, HopeWorks and Healthcare for the Homeless.
Additionally, Health and Social Services Centers, community centers, senior centers and public libraries throughout Albuquerque are open to the public as cooling centers and to offer support services like utility assistance, food boxes and hygiene items.
Splash Pads and Pools Open Citywide
All city splash pads and pools are open as a fun way for individuals and families to beat the summer sun.
Locations can be found throughout Albuquerque, offering a free or low-cost escape the extreme heat forecasted.
New Ordinance Requires Cooling in Rental Properties
A new city ordinance, sponsored by Councilor Tammy Fiebelkorn, now mandates that all rental units in Albuquerque be equipped with functional cooling systems.
Landlords are required to provide and maintain adequate air conditioning or equivalent cooling solutions.
Residents in non-compliant rental units can report violations by calling 311.
Heat Safety Tips
The City is also urging residents to be on the lookout for symptoms of heat-related illness.
Heat stroke symptoms include body temperature over 103°F, nausea, dizziness, and a rapid pulse, while heat exhaustion may involve heavy sweating, muscle cramps, and clammy skin.
To stay safe:
- Drink plenty of water
- Wear sunscreen, light clothing and a hat if possible
- Avoid outdoor activities during peak heat hours (plan for early excursions)
- Never leave children or pets in parked vehicles (inside temperatures can rise to 170°F in a matter of minutes)
Emergency Readiness and Ways to Help
In case of power outages or heat emergencies, the City is prepared to open emergency shelters.
ACS and first responders will also check in on neighborhoods to ensure resident safety.
Those wanting to help can donate water bottles, sunscreen and cooling towels online or through the City’s Amazon Wishlist at cabq.gov/hhh/donate.
For emergencies, dial 911. For non-emergency information or to access services, call 311 or visit cabq.gov.