Bend, Ore. – Dangerous late-summer heat will blanket much of central and eastern Oregon through Wednesday evening, with highs climbing near 100 degrees across Bend, Redmond, Prineville, John Day, and La Grande. Residents are urged to take precautions as the prolonged stretch of hot weather raises the risk of heat-related illness.
According to the National Weather Service in Pendleton, the heat advisory remains in effect until 9 p.m. Wednesday for the Grande Ronde Valley, John Day Basin, Central Oregon, and Washington’s Northwest Blue Mountains. Forecasters warn that temperatures between 95 and 100 degrees may persist each afternoon, while overnight lows could remain warmer than usual due to lingering cloud cover.
In La Grande and Union County, utility crews are preparing for increased power demand as air conditioners run around the clock. Across Jefferson and Crook counties, officials are reminding residents to check on elderly neighbors and avoid leaving children or pets in vehicles, even briefly.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration recommends rescheduling strenuous outdoor activities to early morning or evening hours, staying hydrated, and taking frequent breaks in shaded or air-conditioned areas. Heat stroke is a medical emergency; anyone showing symptoms should be moved to a cool place and 911 should be called immediately.
The heat advisory remains in place until Wednesday night, and additional alerts may be issued if conditions worsen.
