Severe weather protocols are not currently active.
We update this information during severe weather activations. This information was last updated on September 6, 2024 at 2:50 pm for the September 5-7 activation.
Learn about thresholds for heat and wildfire smoke activation, what goes into an activation, review our full Severe Weather Policy.
The mild Pacific Northwest climate can make us more sensitive to heat. When it’s hot, our region sees a spike in the number of people who have serious health problems like heart attacks, stroke, and kidney failure. Across all seasons, Public Health of Seattle-King County has advice on being prepared for hot weather, and being prepared for wildfire smoke, and, in the case of extreme cold, how to prevent and treat hypothermia.
Use the links below to find forecast information and year-round resources. Click here to see the current National Weather Service HeatRisk Map.
Families with Children: Call the Family Shelter Intake Line (206) 245-1026 to be connected with a shelter bed and a ride to that location.
General Use:
QR Code for KCRHA’s Severe Weather Response page – can be added to flyers to direct to the most up-to-date info
Heat & Wildfire Smoke Activation Tiers Consolidated Flyer – for service providers to have a quick reference to activation tiers
How to Stay Safe in a Heatwave (King County Public Health Info) – Social Media Carousel – for service providers and community members to share (compressed folder with 8 images)
Three Ways the Public Can Help People Experiencing Homelessness During a Heatwave – Social Media Carousel – for service providers and community members to share (compressed folder with 4 images)
This information will be updated when we activate for our first cold weather activation of the season.
Families with Children: Call the Family Shelter Intake Line (206) 245-1026 to be connected with a shelter bed and a ride to that location.
This information will be updated when we activate for our first cold weather activation of the season.
Families with Children: Call the Family Shelter Intake Line (206) 245-1026 to be connected with a shelter bed and a ride to that location.
This information will be updated when we activate for our first cold weather activation of the season.
Families with Children: Call the Family Shelter Intake Line (206) 245-1026 to be connected with a shelter bed and a ride to that location.
This information will be updated when we activate for our first cold weather activation of the season.
Families with Children: Call the Family Shelter Intake Line (206) 245-1026 to be connected with a shelter bed and a ride to that location.
This information will be updated when we activate for our first cold weather activation of the season.
Families with Children: Call the Family Shelter Intake Line (206) 245-1026 to be connected with a shelter bed and a ride to that location.
During the warmer months and wildfire season, many local organizations are providing spaces and supplies to keep unhoused neighbors cool, hydrated, and safe from extreme weather, there are a few things you can do to help, too:
During a Severe Weather Response protocols activation, you can look at the information listed in the sections above and find organizations in your region that offer daytime or overnight shelter when protocols are not activated, you can view our Regional Services Database to find an organization near you.
- Check in with local organizations that are operating daytime drop-in centers and overnight shelter and ask if they need any donated supplies to keep their site running smoothly.
- Volunteer with an organization that provides warming or resources for unsheltered individuals in your neighborhood or city.
- Donate financially to an organization that serves your community.
- Help get the word out about resources by sharing this page, or the graphics in the “Shareable Graphics & Flyers” section above on social media.
During heatwaves and wildfire smoke, you can also carry hydrating beverages like water or electrolyte drinks and snacks to distribute to people who request help.
More Places to Stay Cool
Local malls (The Outlet Collection in Auburn, Westfield Southcenter Mall in Tukwila, Crossroads Mall in Bellevue, and Alderwood Mall in Lynwood), libraries, and movie theaters are all good places to stay cool.
King County Library System: Most libraries are warm and open to the public. Check for locations and times.