This is an archived article from August 2021
An excessive heat warning is in place this weekend in our region. The current forecast shows triple-digit temperatures for Saturday, Sunday and Monday with overnight lows staying above 70 degrees.
It’s gonna be hot, folks.
The best advice is to drink more water than usual and don’t wait until you’re thirsty to drink, stay out of the sun, and stay in an air-conditioned room if possible. Be sure to check on friends and neighbors and seek medical care immediately if you or someone you know has symptoms of heat-related illness.
Multnomah County will be opening cooling centers beginning Friday, June 25, 2021 at 1 p.m. and they will remain open at least through Monday, June 28. No one will be turned away. Anyone who needs transportation should dial 2-1-1.
- Sunrise Center: 18901 E Burnside St.
- Oregon Convention Center: 960 NE 1st Ave.
- Arbor Lodge Shelter: 1952 N Lombard St.
In addition some library branches with air conditioning will also be open from noon to 6:00 p.m. each day.
- Gresham Library: 385 NW Miller Ave, Gresham
- Midland Library: 805 SE 122nd Ave, Portland
- Holgate Library: 7905 SE Holgate Blvd, Portland
- Kenton Library: 8226 N Denver Ave, Portland
- Capitol Hill Library: 10723 SW Capitol Hwy, Portland
If you choose to head to the Sandy River to cool off, please remember that no matter how hot it is outside, that water is very cold and the current is very fast. Lifeguards will be on duty, but please wear a life jacket if you go into the water and be sure to keep any children with you within arms reach. If you forget to bring a life jacket, there are free loaners available for daily use. AMR has approximately 75 to loan daily, in all sizes from infant to adults. Be aware that Glenn Otto Park will likely be extremely busy.
Please note, that an outdoor burn ban is currently in place. This ban includes recreational campfires, fire pits, yard debris and agricultural burning until further notice. Outdoor barbecuing is still allowed; however, residents should exercise extreme caution. And please… no fireworks. Seriously.
Below is a list of resources that can help you get through heat.
- Help for When it's Hot (Multnomah County)
- Extreme Heat Tips and Resources (CDC)
- Preventing Heat-related Illnesses (Oregon Health Authority)
- Keeping your Pets Cool in Hot Weather (Multnomah County)
- Weather Forecast and Warnings (National Weather Service)
- Emergency Alerts (PublicAlerts.org)
The video below provides advice on how to stay cool in extreme heat.