Amherst Opens Cooling Centers Amid Continuing Heat Wave

Amherst has opened cooling centers and outdoor facilities across town for residents seeking relief from the ongoing summer heat, the town announced this week, as Level 2 water use restrictions imposed earlier this month remain in effect.

TOWN HALL

The Town of Amherst says cooling centers and numerous outdoor facilities are open throughout the summer "for all who need a safe and cool space" during the current heat. The announcement comes as the town's Level 2 water use restrictions, imposed amid this summer's dry conditions, remain in place.

COMMUNITY & ARTS

Amherst's community calendar lists a West African Drumming Workshop and a Salsa in the Park dance event, both set for Saturday, July 25, part of a full slate of town-sponsored outdoor programming this weekend.

ELSEWHERE IN THE NEWS

"Phyllis Doliber Sleigh - Daily Hampshire Gazette" — The Daily Hampshire Gazette published an obituary Friday for longtime Amherst-area resident Phyllis Doliber Sleigh, who was born January 6, 1932, and died peacefully July 22 at Mary's Meadow in Holyoke, per the Gazette. (read it at https://gazettenet.com/2026/07/24/obit-phyllis-doliber-sleigh-211923034/)

COMING UP

Several town boards meet in the week ahead: the Amherst Housing Authority Board of Commissioners convenes Monday, July 27; the Energy and Climate Action Committee, Planning Board and Conservation Commission all meet Wednesday, July 29; and the Jones Library, Inc. Board of Trustees meets Thursday, July 30.

Also on the calendar: the Amherst Farmers Market, Fun Saturday Mornings, and Open-Play Pickleball at Mill River are all set for Saturday, July 25.

Compiled from official town feeds, community organizations, and local press. Outside reporting is attributed inline.