Pendleton, Ore. – Residents across eastern Oregon and south-central Washington should prepare for several days of dangerous heat beginning Tuesday morning, with temperatures climbing into the triple digits and the hottest conditions expected on Wednesday. The prolonged stretch of extreme heat could significantly increase the risk of heat-related illnesses, especially for those working or spending extended time outdoors.
According to the National Weather Service in Pendleton, an Extreme Heat Watch remains in effect from Tuesday morning through Thursday evening for the Columbia Basin, Yakima Valley, Lower Columbia Basin, the foothills of the Blue Mountains, the Northern Blue Mountains, and portions of the Columbia Gorge. High temperatures are expected to range from 100 to 102 degrees, with some communities in the Columbia Basin potentially reaching 105 degrees.
Wednesday is forecast to be the hottest day of the event, with Major HeatRisk expected across the Columbia Basin, Yakima Valley, parts of the Columbia Gorge, and the Blue Mountain foothills. While temperatures may ease slightly on Thursday, widespread moderate HeatRisk will continue, with major impacts still possible across the Columbia Basin.
Communities including Pendleton, Hermiston, Boardman, The Dalles, Yakima, Walla Walla, Pasco, Kennewick, Richland, and surrounding areas should limit strenuous outdoor activity during the afternoon and early evening. Those who must work outside should take frequent breaks in shaded or air-conditioned locations, drink plenty of water, and wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing.
Heat exhaustion and heat stroke can develop quickly during prolonged exposure to extreme temperatures. Residents are urged to check on older adults, young children, and anyone without reliable cooling, and never leave children or pets in parked vehicles.
The Extreme Heat Watch remains in effect through Thursday evening, and additional watches, warnings, or advisories may be issued as confidence in the hottest temperatures increases.
