Juneteenth organizers in Columbia provide water, shade for Wednesday’s events amid heatwave

COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)

Temperatures are continuing to rise in Mid-Missouri amidst a heatwave this week.

Temperatures this week climbed past 90 degrees, however, the heat has not putting a damper on Columbia’s Juneteenth celebrations. Many events were held around the city on Wednesday in observance of the holiday.

Executive Board Member for CoMo Juneteenth Celebration John Fields is responsible for safety and security at their events, and heat safety is no exception.

"We provide water, food and, like I said, there's a lot of shade trees around here. This is kind of one reason why we picked this spot over here (at Douglass Park)," Fields said. "It's got a lot of shade for people to stay out of the heat. We got a couple of shelter houses here that are in the shade that people kind of rotate around."

Erika Buford, executive administrator for Powerhouse Community Development Corporation in Columbia, also shared about the precautions they are taking to celebrate Juneteenth safely. She helped with an event at Cosmo Park on Wednesday.

"Well we have big fans out here and we have lots and lots of water, and we're providing free food also," Buford said. "I'm glad we're under a shelter!"

Buford didn't think that the heat would affect the their event's attendance

"It's usually hot, so people come out throughout the day, so I think it'll still be as packed."

While attending Juneteenth or other outdoor events, it is important to drink plenty of water. The Mayo Clinic recommends women consume 11-and-a-half cups of water each day and men to consume 15-and-a-half cups.

There is one more Juneteenth event in Columbia being held Thursday. The Juneteenth Jamboree Family Fun Fest is set for 6-8 p.m. at Cosmo Park.