Portland drivers will face summer-like heat this week as September temperatures push close to 90 degrees Wednesday, raising health and fire risks. Officials urge residents to limit outdoor activity in the afternoon and stay alert for brush fire hazards near roadways.
According to the National Weather Service in Portland, highs will reach 88 degrees Wednesday with light winds. Travel along I-84 and I-5 will remain smooth under clear skies, but heat can strain vehicles and increase the chance of roadside fires. Low humidity, combined with gusts up to 21 mph Tuesday night, may challenge fire crews already monitoring dry grass and timber.
Wednesday brings more sun, though highs drop slightly near 80 degrees. Overnight lows will hover in the upper 50s, offering some relief. Thursday and Friday continue mostly sunny, with daytime highs between 78 and 79 degrees. Weekend conditions turn unsettled, with a chance of showers Saturday night into Sunday.
The streak of sunshine may feel welcome, but residents should take precautions. Hydrate regularly, avoid strenuous work in peak heat, and monitor local burn bans. Outdoor workers should plan early shifts and remain cautious of rising afternoon temperatures.
Rain chances late in the weekend could help ease fire concerns, though forecasters stress the dry stretch through Friday will remain the bigger challenge. Updated advisories could follow if wind or fire risk increases.
Five-Day Forecast for Portland, Oregon
- Wednesday: Sunny, high near 80, low around 57.
- Thursday: Mostly sunny, high near 78, low near 56.
- Friday: Mostly sunny, high near 79, low near 55.
- Saturday: Mostly sunny, high near 83, chance of rain at night, low 59.
- Sunday: Chance of rain, partly sunny, high near 73, low 55.
