Songpa-gu Fully Operates 187 Heat Relief Shelters to Protect Vulnerable Residents from Heatwave

Strengthening Heatwave Response with Heat Relief Shelters, Extended Shelters, and Safe Lodging

On July 14, Songpa-gu in Seoul announced that it is operating all 187 of its "Heat Relief Shelters" in full response to the heatwave.

Since June, the district has been taking proactive measures for four months, prioritizing the protection of the elderly, who are particularly vulnerable to extreme heat, until September. The Heat Relief Shelters serve as evacuation spaces for residents located close to daily life, acting as a safety net to protect residents' health from the heatwave.

Songpa-gu Heat Relief Shelter (Macheon 2-dong Community Center). Provided by Songpa-gu.

This year, Songpa-gu has designated a total of 187 locations as Heat Relief Shelters, including 157 senior centers, 2 comprehensive welfare centers for the elderly, as well as the district office and local community centers. The shelters operate from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., and each facility is equipped with fans, portable water bottles, and first aid kits to provide a safe environment.

When a heatwave advisory is issued, 10 of these locations are converted into "Extended Shelters" and operate until 9 p.m. The district office and public senior centers offer a place for anyone to escape the heat and rest even at night.

For low-income seniors who live in poor housing conditions or are at high risk of heat-related illness, the district also operates "Safe Lodging." During a heatwave advisory, one designated private lodging facility (with a total of 10 rooms) is available from 7 p.m. to 9 a.m. the following day. Applications can be made through the local community center.

Information about the Heat Relief Shelters can be found in the announcements section of the Songpa-gu Office website. In addition, the district is carrying out various heatwave prevention activities, such as inspecting and repairing cooling equipment at the shelters, distributing informational materials on heatwave safety practices, and providing guidance on heatwave prevention rules.

Seo Gangseok, Mayor of Songpa-gu, emphasized, "Due to climate change, the heatwave has arrived earlier and is more intense than in previous years. I especially urge residents who are vulnerable to the heat, such as seniors, to actively use the nearby Heat Relief Shelters to protect their health."