Triple-digit heat projected to grip Oregon, Southwest Washington this weekend and early next week

Oregon and Southwest Washington are heading into a stretch of dangerous summer heat, with forecasters warning of triple-digit temperatures and increased health risks beginning this weekend and peaking early next week.

While Thursday and Friday have remained relatively mild, with highs in the 70s and 80s for most of Oregon, the National Weather Service issued on Friday several extreme heat warnings across much of the state starting Sunday morning through Tuesday due to high pressure building over the Pacific Northwest.

The agency predicts temperatures could reach up to 103 degrees Fahrenheit across Southwest Washington and the Willamette Valley, including the Portland-Vancouver metro area. The warning also extends to the Columbia River Gorge and Upper Hood River Valley.

Forecasters also issued an extreme heat watch in Central Oregon, including Bend, Redmond and John Day as temperatures there are expected to reach triple digits.

A heat advisory is also in effect from 8 a.m. Sunday to 2 a.m. Tuesday for central Douglas County. In Southern Oregon, people could see scorchers as high as 110 degrees Fahrenheit.

Coastal areas south of Cape Blanco, particularly around Brookings, will begin to warm due to the Chetco Effect, a downslope wind pattern known to cause sharp temperature spikes.

Here’s what to expect:

• Portland and the Willamette Valley have a 60–85% chance of reaching 100 degrees or higher.
• Medford is forecast to hit 106 degrees, with a 40% chance of reaching 110 degrees.
• Eastern Oregon, including the Columbia Basin and inland valleys, will see highs in the mid-90s.

Related: No air conditioning? Here’s how to stay cool in Oregon, Southwest Washington during a heat wave

While fire danger remains low for now, officials expect fire weather concerns to increase as conditions dry out and temperatures rise.

Adding to the NWS Alert, overnight lows in many urban areas — including Portland and the northern and central Willamette Valley — may not fall below the mid-60s. These warmer nights increase the risk of heat-related illnesses.

In a news release Friday, the Oregon Health Authority advised seniors, young children and infants, outdoor workers and people with chronic medical conditions to take precautions, as these groups are most vulnerable to heat-related illnesses.

“Some heat-related illnesses can be managed at home or at urgent care,” the release said. “However, if you or someone you see is experiencing confusion or unconsciousness due to heat exposure, call 911.”

Health officials also recommend drinking plenty of fluids, staying cool indoors and wearing light clothing to prevent heat illness.

Visit healthoregon.org/heat for more information on how to recognize heat-related illnesses and safety tips.

County-specific resources, including cooling center information, can be found here.