Oregon’s historic heat wave expected to continue into next week, shattering records

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Much of Oregon is continuing to see record-breaking temperatures, a trend that meteorologists expect to last into next week.

The National Weather Service in Portland is reporting that each day of the forecasted heat wave has the potential to break a single-day temperature record. Friday was the hottest July 5 ever recorded in Portland, Hillsboro, Salem, Eugene, and Vancouver, Washington.

And conditions are only expected to get hotter. Monday and Tuesday could see temperatures in Portland as high as 103 F and 104 F, respectively. Cooler conditions are expected to arrive Wednesday.

NWS Meteorologist Noah Alviz said the last time Portland Airport saw five consecutive days of 100 F or greater was way back in July 1941.

“It’s pretty unusual for this area to get these kinds of temperatures for this kind of duration,” Alviz said.

Amid the historic heat is the ongoing concern for its potentially deadly impact on local residents.

Related: Gov. Tina Kotek declares statewide emergency as heat wave hits Oregon

Six people were hospitalized Friday for heat-related illnesses, according to a Multnomah County spokesperson. No fatalities have been reported, as local governments and service organizations continue to provide aid to at-risk populations, particularly the elderly and those living outside.

Multnomah County has continued to offer cooling shelters from noon until 10 p.m. at three different locations: Cook Plaza in Gresham, Portland Covenant Church and Congregation Beth Israel in Portland. The shelters will be open Sunday, as well. County Spokesperson Julia Comnes said they have so far distributed more than 78,000 bottles of water.

County officials closed a shelter at The Hugo in Northeast Portland, citing “challenges with its HVAC system.” Those who arrive at The Hugo will be transferred to a different cooling station, according to a county news release.

Officials continue to recommend that people stay hydrated, avoid strenuous activities outside, and to check on vulnerable neighbors and family members.