Cooling Centers Open Across South Jersey as Temperatures Soar

BRIDGETON, N.J. — With extreme heat sweeping across New Jersey, several counties have activated official cooling centers to provide relief for residents. Facilities in both Atlantic and Cumberland counties are open to the public, offering air-conditioned spaces for those in need. In Atlantic County, the Absecon Branch Library, Egg Harbor Township Branch, Mays Landing Library, Pleasantville Branch Library, and Somers Point Library are open. Each location is operating during normal business hours, and residents are encouraged to call ahead to confirm availability. Cumberland County has also opened multiple cooling centers, including libraries and senior centers in Bridgeton, Rosenhayn, Newport, Cedarville, Port Norris, Leesburg, Millville, and Vineland. Among the active sites are the Bridgeton Free Public Library, Cumberland County Library, Millville Public Library, and Vineland Public Library, as well as several senior centers such as the Charlotte Brago Center and the Louise Moore Senior Center. The NJ 211 hotline continues to serve as the statewide resource for individuals experiencing homelessness or requiring emergency shelter. During business hours, residents are advised to contact their county social service agency. After hours, the public can dial 211 for assistance with emergency housing placements and referrals. Cooling center availability is based on information provided by county or municipal emergency management offices and may change with weather conditions. For the latest updates on cooling centers and heat safety, residents can call 211 or visit www.nj211.org.