Heat Ramps Up in Oregon With Limited Overnight Relief Expected Into Next Week

PORTLAND, Ore. – Western Oregon is set for a stretch of hot weather beginning this weekend, with temperatures climbing more than 10 degrees and reaching near triple digits early next week.

KATU’s Storm Tracker 2 Weather Alert is in effect to help residents prepare for the incoming heat wave, which will also bring warm overnight lows and minimal relief after sunset.

Latest Forecast

Sunday: Portland metro highs in the mid-90s
Monday: Peak heat in the upper 90s, possibly nearing 100° in some areas
Tuesday: Slight cooldown to upper 80s
Later in the week: Cooler weather and increased cloud cover expected

KATU Meteorologist Rhonda Shelby warns that overnight lows will remain in the mid-60s, keeping conditions warm and making it harder for homes to cool naturally.

While Southwest Washington will see slightly lower highs, areas south of Portland will feel the brunt of the heat. Oregon’s coast will stay much cooler, with highs in the 70s — a potential escape for those looking to beat the inland heat.

Preparation Tips

Friday and Saturday are the best days to get ready before conditions peak. Recommended steps:

Ensure fans and air conditioning units are functioning properly
Stock up on water and easy-to-prepare meals that won’t heat your home
Complete yard work or outdoor tasks before the hottest days arrive
Avoid strenuous outdoor activity during peak heat hours (10 a.m.–5 p.m.)

Oregon Health Authority Heat Safety Guidance

Stay indoors in air-conditioned spaces when possible
Schedule outdoor activities for early morning or late evening
Use portable fans to circulate cooler air, but avoid them as the sole cooling source when indoor temps exceed 90°F
Seek cooler locations with friends, family, or at designated cooling centers
Wear loose-fitting, light-colored clothing
Stay hydrated, avoid alcohol and sugary drinks, and limit caffeine
Use cool compresses, take cool showers, and apply misting to reduce body temperature

Children, Pets, and Hot Cars

Authorities emphasize the extreme danger of leaving children or pets in vehicles, even for short periods.

On an 85°F day, a car’s interior can soar to 120°F in just 20 minutes, even with windows cracked.

If you see a child or pet in a hot car:

Record the make, model, and license plate
Alert nearby businesses to locate the owner
Call local non-emergency police
In emergencies, Oregon law allows breaking a car window to rescue an animal or child — but law enforcement must be notified, and you must remain on scene until help arrives

Protecting Pets From Heat Hazards

Beyond vehicles, hot surfaces like pavement, asphalt, sand, or metal can burn pet paws. When in doubt, touch the surface with your hand — if it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for your pet.

Consider shorter walks during cooler hours and ensure pets have plenty of shade and water.

With temperatures climbing toward 100 degrees and warm nights offering little recovery, residents are urged to take early precautions to protect themselves, loved ones, and pets from heat-related illness.