We’ve had a respite from the heat over the last few days, but hot days are ahead once again.
According to the National Weather Service, temperatures are expected to climb into the mid-90s starting Sunday and lasting for the next three to five days.
“We’re on track for a much warmer than normal July,” said Shawn Weagle, NWS meteorologist. “The daily temperatures themselves aren’t unusual for summer, but the fact we’re getting so many days like this is a little bit unusual.”
Looking into August, relief isn’t likely.
“(The Climate Prediction Center) in their eight- to 14-day outlook, they have a strong signal of above normal temperatures being likely for that period for the Pacific Northwest, really all through the West,” Weagle added.
Overnight temperatures aren’t likely to cool down, either.
“People are going to struggle to find relief,” he said.
Weagle recommended the standard protocol for high temperatures: stay hydrated and seek shade when outside.
“Definitely do not leave your pets or your child in the car, especially with closed windows,” he added. “That can be, as we all know, very deadly. The inside of a car can heat really fast.”
If you don’t have air conditioning at home, Weagle suggested taking some time to visit a friend or family who does, or head to the library or a movie theater to cool off.
“Just try to stay cool,” he said.
The extended period of high, dry heat could cause problems with respect to fire, Weagle said. The Substation Fire in The Dalles, Ore., has already burned more than 70,000 acres and killed one person. The fire was recently tapped as the top priority in the United States for receiving federal aid.
“(The heat) is definitely not helping the fire situation,” Weagle said of the possibility for flames in Clark County.
Essentially, he said, buckle down because this heat isn’t going anywhere.
