Friday cools slightly, excessive heat warning canceled
Aug 17, 2012, 5:03 AM | Updated: 12:00 pm
The National Weather Service says the high temperatures from a heat wave are cooling off sooner than originally expected.
Temperatures hit 94 at Sea-Tac on Thursday. Friday temperatures are now expected to drop slightly, reaching the mid to upper 80s.
KING 5 meteorologist Lisa Van Cise said that a marine push brought some cooling air to the Puget Sound earlier than expected. Unless you’re in the Cascade foothills, you won’t experience temps in the 90s Friday.
“It’s going to be sunny and hot today,” says KING 5 meteorologist Jim Guy.
A heat advisory is in effect until 9 p.m. for Western Washington from Everett through the southwest corner of the state. The advisory replaces an earlier “excessive heat warning.”
The shift doesn’t mean it won’t be warm outside. “One more hot day to go,” said KING 5 meteorologist Jim Guy. “Then things start to cool down this weekend.”
According to the the National Weather Service, an onshore flow should continue to bring cooler temperatures to Western Washington over the weekend.
While warm temperatures persist, experts are reminding residents to drink plenty of water and watch for signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Extra care should also be taken for pets and farm animals who are at risk.
“During this heat wave it’s important to stay cool and safe,” said Mayor Mike McGinn. “Use caution if you are spending time outside, and please take a moment to check on vulnerable friends and neighbors.”
Cooling centers have been set up around the region for those impacted. The city of Seattle released a list of public air conditioned buildings for those trying to stay out of the heat. The office of Emergency Management has cooling centers set up in King County. Pierce County has also provided a list of libraries and other cool buildings open to the public.
High temperatures east of the mountains will linger a little longer. Forecasters say the heat will continue Saturday in Eastern Washington, but temperatures should cool into early next week.
There’s a red flag warning for a high wildfire danger on the east side of the Cascades, including the Wenatchee, Ellensburg and Yakima areas.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
