Spokane, Washington – A sweltering start to meteorological fall has Spokane staring down triple-digit heat through Thursday—just as skies may ignite with a rare aurora display overnight Monday into Tuesday. Residents across eastern Washington could see temperatures soar to 101°F Tuesday afternoon, while the Northern Lights could shimmer overhead if clouds hold off.
According to the National Weather Service in Spokane, a Heat Advisory remains in effect until 8 p.m. Thursday for Spokane, Coulee Dam, Clarkston, and communities across the Columbia Basin. Daytime highs are projected to stay between 98°F and 101°F through midweek, with overnight lows offering little relief, hovering in the mid-60s.
With prolonged heat and minimal cooling, the risk of heat-related illnesses increases significantly. The NWS advises limiting outdoor activity during peak heat hours, wearing light clothing, and checking on neighbors without air conditioning. Travelers on U.S. Highway 2 and I-90 should be alert for heat fatigue and vehicle strain in stop-and-go traffic.
Meanwhile, skywatchers may get a bonus. A solar storm triggered by a coronal mass ejection could allow parts of Washington—including Spokane County—to glimpse the Northern Lights through early Tuesday morning. For the best viewing, get away from city lights and look north after midnight.
Relief remains distant. The region will continue to bake under high pressure with little cloud cover through the week.
Five-Day Forecast for Spokane, WA:
- Tuesday: Sunny and hot, high near 101°F. Calm wind.
- Wednesday: Sunny, high near 101°F. Light east wind.
- Thursday: Hot again, high near 98°F. Mostly sunny.
- Friday: Mostly sunny, high around 93°F. Slight breeze.
- Saturday: Partly sunny with a high near 81°F. Cooler.
