(MANHATTAN, KS – August 18, 2023) — The National Weather Service in Topeka has issued an Excessive Heat Watch in effect starting at noon Saturday, August 19 through at least the evening of Wednesday, August 23.
Extreme heat and humidity, with heat index values reaching as high as 110 degrees, will increase the risk of heat-related illness significantly. Stay indoors, avoid strenuous activity, and drink plenty of fluids!
Riley County Emergency Management issued a no-burn notice effective today.
No outdoor burning, including agricultural burning and brush piles, is allowed until further notice. Due to the excessive heat and dangerous fire conditions, any outdoor fires could get out of control quickly. Call 911 immediately if you see or suspect a wildfire!
As summer temperatures rise, the risk of heat-related health problems increases. The City of Manhattan and Riley County remind residents to take these seven precautions to ensure you and your neighbors are able to experience the summer weather safely.
- NEVER leave children or pets alone in hot vehicles! Heat can rise quickly in a car — as much as 20 degrees in just 10 minutes! If you see a child or pet in a hot car, call 911 immediately.
- Check on family members and neighbors, especially those who are older, to be sure they are keeping cool.
- If you have to be outside, wear light, loose-fitting clothing; drink plenty of water to stay hydrated; and take frequent breaks in the shade.
- Know the signs of heat-related illnesses, such as heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Learn more here.
- Avoid high-energy activities.
- Stay indoors in an air-conditioned area as much as possible.
- Check on pets, bring them inside and provide them with plenty of cool water.
Additional tips are available on the Centers for Disease Control website.
Cooling Locations Open to the Public
The following Manhattan locations are air-conditioned facilities where people can get away from the heat. Hours of operation may vary.
Anthony Recreation Center
2415 Browning Avenue
(785) 340-3347
8 AM-8 PM Monday – Thursday
8 AM-6 PM Friday
9 AM-4 PM Saturday
Noon-4 PM Sunday
Be Able Community Center
431 S. 5th Street
(785) 775-1205
8 AM-4 PM Monday – Friday
10 AM-1 PM Saturday
Closed Sunday
Douglass Activity Center
925 Yuma Street
(785) 587-2773
8 AM-8 PM Monday – Thursday
8 AM-6 PM Friday
9 AM-4 PM Saturday
Noon-4 PM Sunday
Douglass Community Center
900 Yuma Street
(785) 587-2773
1 PM-8 PM Monday – Friday
Closed Saturday and Sunday
Eisenhower Recreation Center
2850 Kirkwood Drive
(785) 340-3349
8 AM-8 PM Monday – Thursday
8 AM-6 PM Friday
9 AM-4 PM Saturday
Noon-4 PM Sunday
Flint Hills Discovery Center
315 S. 3rd Street
(785) 587-2726
10 AM-5 PM Tuesday – Saturday
Noon-5 PM Sunday
Closed Monday
Manhattan City Hall Lobby
1101 Poyntz Avenue
(785) 587-2480
8 AM-5 PM Monday – Friday
Closed Saturday and Sunday
Manhattan Public Library
629 Poyntz Avenue
(785) 776-4741
9 AM-9 PM Monday – Thursday
9 AM-8 PM Friday
9 AM-6 PM Saturday
1 PM-6 PM Sunday
Manhattan Senior Center
301 N. 4th Street
(785) 537-4040
8 AM-4 PM Monday – Friday
Closed Saturday and Sunday
Manhattan Town Center
100 Manhattan Town Center
(785) 539-3500
10 AM-8 PM Monday – Saturday
Noon-6 PM Sunday
Riley County Historical Museum
2309 Claflin Road
(785) 565-6490
8:30 AM-5 PM Tuesday – Friday
2 PM-5 PM Saturday – Sunday
Closed Monday
The Manhattan Emergency Shelter, Inc. (MESI), located at 416 S. 4th Street, is the only organization that can provide shelter overnight. MESI occupancy limits as well as eligibility requirements for guests apply.
If you have questions about this information, please contact the City Manager’s Office at (785) 587-2404.