The City of Mobile announced Wednesday that seven community centers have been designated as “cooling centers” due to a heat wave making its way through lower Alabama.

The National Weather Service issued excessive heat warnings for Mobile and Baldwin counties, as temperatures reach the upper-90s and the heat index climbs up to 117 degrees.

The city said the following locations will serve as cooling centers:

• Figures Community Center, 658 Donald Street, Mobile, AL 36617
• Harmon Community Center, 1611 Belfast Street, Mobile, AL 36605
• Sullivan Community Center, 351 N. Catherine Street, Mobile, AL 36603
• Laun Community Center, 5401 Windmill Drive, Mobile, AL 36693
• Lavretta Community Center, 200 W. Parkway Drive, Mobile, AL 36608
• Stotts Community Center, 2150 Demetropolis Road, Mobile, AL 36693
• Rickarby Community Center, 550 Rickarby Street, Mobile, AL 36606

Each location will be open during their “regularly scheduled business hours when an excessive heat warning is in effect,” a statement from the city said.

Read more: What will be the 10 hottest Alabama cities in the heatwave?

Click here for more information about the community centers and their hours.

The heat wave, making its way east from Texas, is expected to continue throughout the week.

While the actual temperature is not expected to climb higher than the upper-90s in coastal Alabama, the heat index is an important indicator of potential impacts to those who have prolonged exposure to the heat, according to the NWS. Extreme heat increases the threat of heat exhaustion, cramps and strokes.

Forecasters issue excessive heat warnings when the heat index reaches 110 or more degrees.

Signs of heat stroke, according to the U.S. Dept. of Homeland Security, include:

• Extremely high body temperature (above 103 degrees F) taken orally
• Red, hot and dry skin with no sweat
• Rapid, strong pulse
• Dizziness, confusion or unconsciousness

If you suspect you or someone around you is experiencing a heat stroke, call 911 or get the person to a hospital as soon as possible. Cool down with whatever methods are available until medical help can take over, but the person experiencing heat stroke should not have anything to drink.

Officials also advise those in extreme heat to:

• Never leave people or pets in a closed car on a warm day.
• If air conditioning is not available in your home go to a cooling center.
• Take cool showers or baths.
• Wear loose, lightweight, light-colored clothing.
• Use your oven less to help reduce the temperature in your home.
• If you’re outside, find shade. Wear a hat wide enough to protect your face.
• Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated.
• Avoid high-energy activities or work outdoors, during midday heat, if possible.
• Check on family members, older adults and neighbors.
• Watch for heat cramps, heat exhaustion and heat stroke.
• Consider pet safety. If they are outside, make sure they have plenty of cool water and access to comfortable shade. Asphalt and dark pavement can be very hot to your pet’s feet.
• If using a mask, use one that is made of breathable fabric, such as cotton, instead of polyester. Don’t wear a mask if you feel yourself overheating or have trouble breathing.

To learn more about heat-related illness, how to stay safe and prepare for excessive heat, visit www.ready.gov/heat.

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