In response to this year’s first “yellow” hot weather alert issued by the Macau Meteorological and Geophysical Bureau (SMG), with temperatures in some areas of the city having reached 34.3°C yesterday, the Social Welfare Bureau (IAS) opened its cooling centre in Ilha Verde (青洲坊大廈) district.
According to an IAS statement, the centre opened to the public yesterday. It stayed open from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. yesterday.
According to the SMG website, the “yellow” hot weather alert means that it will be “very hot” in Macau. It is the lower of a two-level hot weather warning system. The “orange” alert means that it will be “extremely hot” in Macau. The cooling centre will remain open for as long as the “yellow” and “orange” alerts are issued.
In the statement, the Social Welfare Bureau urged residents to closely monitor the health of vulnerable individuals, including the elderly living alone, chronic disease patients, and those with weakened immunity, advising them to take preventive measures such as staying hydrated, avoiding prolonged sun exposure, and seeking out cool environments.
Olivia Ip Chi Leng, who is charge of Caritas Macau’s Casa Corcel where the cooling centre is located, told the Post yesterday afternoon that three people entered the air-conditioned centre yesterday morning. She pointed out that the centre provides free Wi-Fi, water and some light snacks to those in need. Ip underlined that the centre opened its doors earlier than expected this year, compared to last June.
For enquiries about the Cooling shelter’s operation, people may call 2827 0939 during office hours or 6399 1963 after office hours.
At 11:20 p.m. yesterday, the mercury stood at 28°C. The Macau Meteorological and Geophysical Bureau (SMG) forecast last night today’s temperature to range between 27°C and 32°C.
This photo taken yesterday afternoon shows the cooling centre’s facilities at Casa Corcel in Ilha Verde district. – Photo: Ida Cheong
