By I. Hansana, Jadetimes News
Pacific Northwest Braces for Smoky and Hot Weekend Amid Triple Digit Heat and Wildfires
Residents in the Pacific Northwest are preparing for a challenging weekend with a forecast of triple digit temperatures and ongoing wildfires contributing to a "smoky and hot" outlook. Excessive heat warnings have been issued for western Washington and Oregon, Southern California, and parts of Arizona, Nevada, Idaho, and Montana. Concurrently, much of this region faces critical wildfire risks. Oregon is currently battling several significant fires.
The Falls Fire, situated about 200 miles southeast of Portland, has scorched 117,000 acres and is only 10% contained, according to the federal interagency fire system. Meanwhile, the Lone Rock Fire, approximately 75 miles north of the Falls Fire, has burned nearly 84,000 acres and is 40% contained.
The National Interagency Fire Center reported on Saturday that dozens of large wildfires are active across 11 states, primarily in the West. Oregon has the highest number of acres on fire, followed by California, where two fires in Sequoia National Forest have burned over 20,000 acres. Forecasters predict that heat in central and eastern Oregon and Washington will intensify on Sunday, with temperatures in parts of Washington potentially reaching 110 degrees, according to Brandon Lawhorn, lead meteorologist for the National Weather Service’s office in Pendleton, Oregon.
A significant concern is that nighttime temperatures are not expected to drop considerably in some areas, increasing the risk of heat related illnesses, as people typically rely on cooler night temperatures for relief. Prolonged hot temperatures can also strain power grids as people run air conditioning at night to stay cool.
Elderly individuals, young children, those with chronic diseases such as diabetes, and people on certain medications are particularly vulnerable to heat stress. The Pacific Northwest, traditionally not known for extreme heat, sees many homes, especially near the coast, lacking air conditioning. On Saturday, heat advisories were in effect for the Portland metropolitan area and the Willamette Valley in Oregon.
Climate change has significantly impacted summers in the region. In 2021, a record breaking heat dome caused by extreme temperatures killed over 250 people, many of whom were elderly and lacked air conditioning. Federal officials warn that more extreme weather events, like the 2021 heat dome, are likely as the planet continues to warm.
Lawhorn advised residents to be aware of the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion or heat stroke. He recommended limiting outdoor activities, staying hydrated, finding shade, and checking on neighbors who might be at higher risk for heat illness. He also stressed not leaving children or pets in cars, even if the vehicle is running. Additionally, isolated thunderstorms could increase wildfire risks. Under such conditions, fires can quickly become more severe.
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