Heat wave set to break record for longest consecutive stretch of 90+ degree highs
Jul 29, 2022, 6:00 PM
(Photo by Kevin Dietsch/Getty Images)
(Photo by Kevin Dietsch/Getty Images)
This week is on its way to becoming the longest stretch of consecutive days at or above 90 degrees for Sea-Tac — six days in a row. The region has seen this stretch of hot weather for just five days in a row twice, once lasting from Aug. 7-11 in 1981, and once again from July 1-5 in 2015.
After breaking single-day records earlier this week, this current heat wave isn’t expected to top any more daily temperature records. Yesterday’s high was 94 in Seattle and the Puget Sound area (97 in 2009) and 94 today (103 in 2009). Tomorrow’s expected high is 94 as well, which would clock in 2 degrees cooler than the 96-degree high set in 2009. Sunday’s 90-degree high is also expected to fall short of 2015’s 94-degree record.
Even overnight low temperatures have been much higher than the region’s normal night lows.
Monday will eventually provide some relief to the heatwave, with a high in the low 80s, before multiple days of low-70s degree weather. There is even a 24% chance of rain on Thursday.
The heat wave has been potentially fatal for the west coast, as the Multnomah County medical examiner is investigating whether heat played a role in three deaths in Portland, according to an agency news release. A fourth possible heat-related death was reported in Umatilla County, on the state’s east side, according to Oregon Public Broadcasting.
After last year’s “heat dome,” Seattle has since generated a draft report of recommendations and is working to finalize a new heat action plan.
Heat mitigation strategy unveiled as Seattle temperatures rise
City workers delivered air conditioning units to senior centers that lacked cooling last week. The King County Regional Homelessness Authority set up cooling stations at homeless encampments.
Even though temps are skyrocketing more than 15 degrees above-average in Puget Sound, the coast is significantly cooler thanks to a weak marine layer.
To combat the heat, if someone is in a “sensitive group” — 65 years old or older, are pregnant, have COPD, asthma or other respiratory issues — minimize time outside in the afternoons and evenings and head into a building with cool and clean air.
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