Oregon is experiencing a major heatwave, with temperatures expected to exceed 100 degrees, making it the first heatwave of the summer. This extreme heat poses a significant risk to vulnerable populations such as the homeless, younger and older individuals, and animals. Both the city of Portland and Multnomah County have declared a state of emergency in response to the heat.
The high temperatures may also lead to an active wildfire season in the state. Experts warn that extreme heat and warmer-than-normal weather could exacerbate these conditions. Gov. Tina Kotek has declared a state of emergency in response to the heat, as temperatures are expected to reach as high as 110 degrees in some parts of southern Oregon.
Communities throughout the Willamette Valley are facing daytime highs between 100-102 degrees and even higher in other parts of the state. People are advised to stay hydrated, limit outdoor activities during the hottest parts of the day, and seek out cooling shelters if they do not have access to air conditioning.
Local organizations such as Transition Projects and Multnomah County have opened cooling shelters to provide relief to those in need. People are urged to take precautions, drink plenty of water, and check on their neighbors during this dangerous heatwave. The National Weather Service has issued an excessive heat warning for most of western Oregon and Southwest Washington, urging residents to take necessary actions to protect themselves from the extreme temperatures.
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