Portland's Fourth of July weekend heat wave to break records
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Record-breaking, triple-digit temperatures are likely over the Fourth of July holiday weekend, and they could linger into next week as a high-pressure system moves over the Pacific Northwest, per the National Weather Service.
Why it matters: Not only does severe heat pose significant health risks, but it can exacerbate the threat of wildfires and drought conditions.
Threat level: Most of central and western Oregon, as well as southwest Washington, is under an excessive heat watch from Thursday to Sunday, with some parts of the Portland metro area reaching up to 105°.
What they're saying: "There's a solid chance that we're going to be breaking some records," David Bishop, a meteorologist with NWS' Portland office, told Axios.
By the numbers: Things will start to heat up Thursday, with expected daytime highs across the Portland metro area reaching 95. Friday's high could be close to 99.
- Saturday will likely be the heat wave's peak when temps could reach up to 105. They are expected to taper off slightly on Sunday, with daytime highs from 98-101.
Flashback: Portland International Airport recorded its highest-ever daily temp for July 5 in 2023 (98°), July 6 in 1960 (97°) and July 7 in 2010 (95°).
The intrigue: Don't expect things to cool down dramatically after Sunday. There's a high probability hot temps will linger into the middle of next week, though forecast models could change "significantly" as the system plays out, Bishop said.
Zoom in: Not all households across the region have adequate access to cooling systems, such as central or portable air conditioning. As of 2019, 78% of households here had "primary air conditioning," up from 70% in 2015, according to the American Housing Survey.
- Following the deadly 2021 heat dome, when 69 people in Multnomah County died, officials launched the Cooling Portland program, which offers free portable AC units to low-income residents.
- Plus: The county has an interactive map of libraries, splash pads, pools and community centers to escape the sun. Cooling centers will open as needed and be announced that morning, spokesperson Julie Sullivan-Springhetti told Axios.
The bottom line: Climate change is causing heat waves to be more intense, last longer and occur more frequently.