Seven Smithsonian locations in Washington, DC, closed today, August 6, due to a “mechanical issue.”
According to the institution’s announcement on X, the affected museums include the National Museum of the American Indian, Hirshhorn Museum, National Museum of Asian Art, National Museum of African Art, Smithsonian Castle, Arts and Industries Building, and the S. Dillon Ripley Center.
A Smithsonian representative told the Washington Post that the buildings had stopped receiving cold water from their cooling system. The city is experiencing yet another swampy summer, with today’s heat index values reaching near or above 100 degrees (~38 Celsius).
The announcement recalls the closure of four Smithsonian locations last summer, due to central plant issues that disrupted heating, ventilation, and air conditioning control. After three days, the museum reopened to the public.
It is not yet clear whether the mechanical issue will affect any of the buildings’ collections, as many must be maintained under climate-controlled conditions. The Smithsonian has not responded to Hyperallergic‘s request for comment.
There are currently no details about a reopening timeline for the buildings. Further updates will appear on the Smithsonian’s virtual visitor center page.
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