‘Mini heat wave’ should peak Wednesday with high near 95

Break out the sun hats and misters — Wednesday is supposed to be the hottest day of the week. High temperatures in Clark County are expected to hover around 95 degrees.

“Summer is not quite done yet,” said Liana Ramirez, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Portland.

Without the marine air that typically keeps temperatures more moderate, locals can expect a “mini heat wave.” Temperatures will taper off through the weekend, Ramirez says. Although Friday and Saturday will be cooler, increased humidity may make those days less comfortable.

Vancouver and Portland will be the hot spots in the area. Because they have more people, buildings and asphalt, urban areas tend to trap heat, in what’s called the urban heat island effect.

The National Weather Service urges people to drink plenty of water and avoid exercising during the peak heat period, 1 to 5 p.m.

It’s not unusual for the area to get 90-degree days in September. Last year on Sept. 7, thermometers hit 95 degrees, and in 2011, there was a stretch of days with temperatures in the 90s in September, according to the weather service.

If you’re itching for cooler weather, mark your calendars for Sept. 22, the official first day of fall.