With a stretch of dangerously hot weather bearing down on Southeast Idaho, the City of Pocatello is preparing to open a network of public cooling stations starting Friday, July 10, giving residents a place to escape the heat during what could be one of the more punishing stretches of summer weather in recent memory.
Temperatures across the Pocatello area are forecast to climb into the upper 90s later this week, prompting city officials to activate the cooling shelter program ahead of the worst of the heat. The stations will be stocked with bottled water and will offer charging stations for portable electronic devices, making them a practical resource for residents who may lose power or simply need relief from extreme indoor temperatures.
How Long Will the Stations Be Open?
City officials have authorized the cooling stations to remain open for 45 days from the July 10 opening date. At that point, officials will assess current weather conditions to determine whether the shelters are still needed or whether temperatures have moderated enough to wind them down. The flexible approach allows the city to respond to ongoing heat rather than committing to a fixed end date regardless of conditions.
Multiple designated shelter locations across Pocatello will be available to the public, though residents should check with the city directly for a complete list of specific addresses and hours of operation before heading out.
Who Should Use Cooling Stations
Cooling stations are particularly vital for vulnerable populations — the elderly, young children, people with chronic health conditions, and those without reliable air conditioning at home. Heat illness can develop quickly when temperatures push into the high 90s, especially during multi-day heat events when nighttime lows fail to bring adequate relief.
The availability of device charging is a practical addition for residents who rely on cell phones to communicate with family members, access medical information, or stay informed about weather updates. During extreme heat events, power grid strain can sometimes lead to outages, making accessible charging infrastructure an important community resource.
Residents spending time outdoors this week — whether working, running errands, or enjoying summer recreation — are encouraged to hydrate frequently, limit strenuous activity during peak afternoon hours, and check on neighbors who may be particularly vulnerable to heat-related illness. For those looking to get outside while staying cooler, Idaho Fish and Game is stocking nearly 10,000 rainbow trout across Southeast Idaho this July, with early morning fishing trips offering a way to enjoy the outdoors before temperatures peak.
What Comes Next
The cooling stations are set to open this Friday, July 10, with the 45-day operational window running into late August — historically one of the hottest periods on the Idaho calendar. City officials will conduct a formal weather reassessment at the end of that window to decide whether to extend services. Residents are encouraged to share information about the cooling station locations with family members, neighbors, and community contacts who may need assistance during the heat event. Check the City of Pocatello’s official communications channels for updated location listings and hours as the week progresses.