Dangerous Tri-Cities heat wave with 108-degree forecast may set a new record
A streak of 100-plus days is hitting the Tri-Cities this week with no relief until the weekend.
The temperature could climb as high as 108 degrees in the Tri-Cities this week, according to the National Weather Service.
It predicts the streak of 100-plus highs to continue through Friday, with Thursday being the hottest day.
If the temperature reaches 108 late Thursday afternoon at the Pasco airport, it will beat the previous high recorded in Pasco for the date of 107 degrees, according to the National Weather Service.
The hot air has moved into the Mid-Columbia from the southwest, said weather service meteorologist Jim Smith.
A heat advisory has been issued for the Tri-Cities and surrounding area through 8 p.m. Thursday.
On Monday, the high in the Tri-Cities was 102 at the Pasco airport.
The record for the date in Pasco was 110 degrees in 1988. In Kennewick the record was 109 degrees in 1934.
Normal highs average about 90 degrees in the Tri-Cities in July.
On Tuesday the high at the Tri-Cities was expected to be 103 degrees, with the Wednesday high matching that.
A slight chance of thunderstorms along with even hotter temperatures is forecast for Thursday.
Friday the high could be 103 degrees again, before the Tri-Cities gets some slight relief from the heat over the weekend. Highs are forecast in the mid 90s Saturday through Monday.
Overnight temperatures also will be warmer than usual. Thursday night could be the warmest with a low of 70 and lows in the mid to high 60s on other nights through Friday.
Heat precautions
The weather service reminds Tri-Cities residents to drink plenty of fluids, stay in air-conditioned rooms, avoid the sun and check on vulnerable family members and neighbors.
People who work outdoors should schedule frequent rest breaks in the shade or indoors.
The American Veterinary Medical Foundation warns pet owners that if you think it’s hot outside, it is even hotter for your pet.
Avoid walking dogs during the hottest part of the day and remember that asphalt can burn a pet’s paws.
Pets, just like people, can suffer heat stress. Watch for anxiousness, excessive panting or drooling and abnormal gum and tongue color in pets, the foundation says.
People most susceptible to heat stress include infants and children, pregnant women, nursing women and older adults.
Call 911 if heat causes symptoms such as a fast, strong pulse; dizziness, nausea or confusion, says the Centers for Disease Control.
This story was originally published July 28, 2020 at 12:56 PM.