Pendleton, Ore. – A dangerous stretch of extreme heat is expected to grip parts of north-central Oregon and southeast Washington beginning Tuesday morning, with triple-digit temperatures persisting through Thursday evening.
According to the National Weather Service in Pendleton, highs could climb to 102 degrees across the Columbia Basin, Yakima Valley, and Tri-Cities region, with several locations at risk of breaking daily temperature records. The prolonged heat will pose a major health hazard, especially for children, seniors, outdoor workers, and those without access to reliable cooling.
Cities under the watch include Hermiston, The Dalles, Pendleton, Yakima, Walla Walla, and the Tri-Cities, where residents are urged to limit outdoor activity during the hottest hours of the day. Local health officials warn that symptoms of heat illness—such as dizziness, nausea, and rapid heartbeat—require immediate medical attention.
The combination of extreme heat and dry conditions may also increase wildfire risk, particularly in foothill regions of the Blue Mountains. Emergency managers recommend checking on vulnerable neighbors, drinking plenty of water, and finding air-conditioned shelter during peak heat hours.
The extreme heat watch remains in effect from Tuesday morning through Thursday evening, with updates possible if conditions worsen.
