We are expecting our first big heat event of the season. Today the National Weather Service (NWS) presented increased confidence for a high-impact, long-duration heatwave with record-breaking temperatures for several days and poor overnight relief.

Temperatures are expected to be highest (in the 100s) on Friday and Saturday. Older adults 65+, people without AC, people who are pregnant, infants and children, outdoor workers, and people with certain health conditions or taking certain medications (see more) will be most impacted. At the time of my writing this, we are currently under an Excessive Heat Warning.

Lane County has a good Cooling & Smoke website set up at www.LaneCountyOR.gov/cooling for information on cooling shelters and staying cool during the heat. It’s a good time for us to check on any neighbors who may live alone and not have access to air conditioning. People can call 211info for information about cooling centers and social services (in 150+ languages).