Don’t put those fans and air masks away just yet. Temperatures are heating back up this weekend, and distant wildfire smoke could return.
On Wednesday, the National Weather Service issued an excessive heat warning for the Portland metro area from today through Tuesday, and temperatures are estimated to peak Tuesday at 101 degrees.
“We’re looking at a stretch of very hot temperatures,” said meteorologist Matthew Cullen of the National Weather Service. He said he expects highs above 85 for more than a week.
“If people have outdoor plans, drink water, find shade, wear light clothing, use sunscreen,” Cullen said.
The heat warning means people without air conditioning are at risk for health issues, such as heat stroke.
Health issues
Cullen said smoke could return with comparable severity to last month’s bouts of smoke that covered Vancouver. But he said it is uncertain, depending on the wind.
Health issues arise from smoke, too. The Oregon Health Authority states people should keep indoors with air as clean as possible, and stay hydrated. People with respiratory issues, cardiovascular issues, and the elderly, infants and children are especially at risk.
The city of Vancouver urges residents to escape the heat at the Marshall Center, which is fully air conditioned and offers Wi-Fi in the lobby.
The Marshall Center pool opened on Aug. 26 after a nine-month-long renovation, but it will be closed Sunday and Monday because of Labor Day.
The Firstenburg Center is closed until Tuesday because of maintenance.
