Heatwave expected to sweep through Washington, raising the risk of heat-related illness
The National Weather Service issued a heat advisory for South Puget Sound and several other parts of Washington that will be in effect from 8 a.m. Thursday, Sept. 5, through 11 p.m. Friday, Sept. 6.
High temperatures in Olympia will reach the low 90s, and in Tacoma are expected to reach the mid to upper 80s through Saturday.
The heat advisory for northern Washington, including Bellingham, will be in effect on Thursday when temperatures are expected to reach 86 degrees.
Areas of Eastern Washington, including the Tri-Cities, will experience temperatures as high as 99 degrees during the warning, which will remain in place until Saturday night, although temperatures in the high 90s could continue into next week.
According to the advisories, the warm conditions “will significantly increase the risk of heat-related illnesses for those who are sensitive to heat, especially those without effective cooling or adequate hydration.”
What are the signs of heat-related illness?
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, heat stroke kicks in when the body cannot control its temperature and its sweating mechanism fails. That can result in body temperatures rising as high as 106 degrees within 10 to 15 minutes.
Heat stroke can result in death or permanent disability if not immediately treated.
“People should be mindful to always have a place to cool off. Make sure if you go out or travel, have something to drink,” National Weather Service meteorologist Les Colin previously told McClatchy News.
The Weather Service tweeted information on heat exhaustion and stroke:.
Heat exhaustion
Dizziness
Thirst
Heavy sweating
Nausea
Weakness
What to do: Move to a cooler area, loosen clothing and sip on cool water. Seek medical help if the symptoms don’t improve because heat exhaustion can lead to heat stroke.
Heat stroke
Confusion
Dizziness
Becoming unconscious
What to do: Move the person to a cooler area, loosen clothing, remove any extra layers, and cool with water or ice.
This story was originally published September 5, 2024 at 5:30 AM with the headline "Heatwave expected to sweep through Washington, raising the risk of heat-related illness."
