First heat wave takes hold with temperatures expected to soar into upper 90s on Sunday

The Pacific Northwest will face a heat wave this weekend, with temperatures expected to reach the 90s and possibly 100 degrees in some locations. Storm Tracker 2 Meteorologist Rhonda Shelby predicts a high of 96 degrees on Sunday, which would break the existing daily record. The National Weather Service has categorized the Columbia River Gorge and Upper Hood River area as having a major risk for heat-related issues, while other parts of the region are under a moderate risk category. As people flock to local waterways to escape the heat, officials are warning about the dangers of cold water shock, with river temperatures ranging between 50 and 60 degrees. Shelby pointed out that this time of year often sees a rise in drowning incidents due to unsafe behaviors around the water.

Historically, a heat wave is defined as three or more consecutive days with temperatures exceeding 90 degrees, significantly higher than the current average high of 72 degrees for Portland. Temperatures are expected to cool down on Tuesday and Wednesday, returning to more seasonal averages. The situation highlights the importance of public safety measures during extreme weather events.