Pendleton, Oregon – A sweltering heat wave will grip much of eastern Oregon and central Washington beginning Wednesday afternoon, pushing temperatures into triple digits and raising the risk of heat-related illness across multiple counties.
According to the National Weather Service in Pendleton, a Heat Advisory goes into effect at noon Wednesday, with highs of 95 to 105°F expected in The Dalles, Yakima, Pendleton, Tri-Cities, Hermiston, Goldendale, Walla Walla, and surrounding communities. The advisory for the Columbia River Gorge, Simcoe Highlands, and North Central Oregon runs until 11 p.m. Wednesday, while the Lower Columbia Basin, Yakima Valley, and Kittitas Valley remain under the alert through 11 p.m. Thursday.
Cities including Prosser, Connell, Ellensburg, Fossil, Arlington, and Waitsburg will also see overnight lows only dipping into the mid-60s to mid-70s, offering little relief. Heat illnesses are a real threat, especially for the elderly, outdoor workers, and those without access to cooling. Local agencies urge residents to stay hydrated, avoid strenuous activity during peak heat, and check on vulnerable neighbors. Pets and children should never be left in vehicles.
Oregon’s 211info and Washington’s wa211.org offer information on local cooling shelters. With dangerous heat persisting through Thursday evening, more advisories or expanded warnings may follow if conditions worsen.
