Record-breaking heat might be on its way to Washington

There could be some record-setting days ahead for Washington.

The National Weather Service is forecasting a heat wave starting this weekend with temperatures reaching the 90s early next week.

Forecasters say Friday will be the last day in a stretch of showery weather as skies turn sunny.

“Summer typically gets going right around July 12. So we’re going to get an early start this year,” says NWS meteorologist Ted Buehner.

Highs in the 70s and 80s are expected through the weekend and then temperatures climb into the 90s in parts of Western Washington.

Buehner says it will be even hotter east of the Cascades where weekend highs will hit the mid 80s to mid 90s, before spending next week in the 90s, and even cracking the “century mark” in a few spots.

Record temperatures in the 90s are possible in places Monday and Tuesday, according to the National Weather Service.

Marine air is expected to push into Washington again on Wednesday, dropping temperatures to the 80s and 70s by the Fourth of July.

The downside of great weather is the risks some people take to enjoy it at rivers, lakes and beaches in Washington. Cold water is a shock.

“Most hot weather deaths are from drowning because rivers are fed by melting snow,” said meteorologist Chris Burke. “You go in and get into trouble right away.”

Authorities also are advising people to protect themselves from heat-related illnesses and not to leave children or pets in cars.

Be careful and enjoy the summer weather.

“It’s going to be pretty nice, basically,” Burke said.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.