PORTLAND, Ore. — A heat record was set in Portland on Tuesday as the metro area is in the middle of a two-day stretch of scorching hot temperatures.
Portland reached 98 degrees, breaking the previous Aug. 27 record of 97 degrees. The entire metro area was in the upper 90s with some breaking into the 100s. The heat stretched north and south along the Interstate 5 corridor throughout the entire state.
Heat records also fell on the Oregon Coast. Astoria hit 91 degrees, breaking a record from 1894. Tillamook reached 97 degrees, the hottest August day on record for the town, according to KGW chief meteorologist Matt Zaffino.
While it was hot on the Oregon Coast Tuesday, temperatures aren't expected to be as extreme Wednesday, holding closer to 80 degrees.
But that won't be the case in the Portland metro area and Willamette Valley, where a heat advisory continues through Wednesday evening. In fact, it could be even hotter on Wednesday, Zaffino said.
Multnomah County issued a burn ban on Tuesday due to the high temperatures. The ban includes recreational camp fires, fire pits, yard debris, agricultural burning and permits issued for burning. The ban is in effect until further notice. Outdoor barbecuing is still allowed but residents should use caution and dispose of charcoal briquettes and ashes properly.
The ban comes a day after a grass fire that quickly spread Monday evening in Northeast Portland. Two buildings were destroyed and several homes were damaged.
The widespread heat led to the National Weather Service issuing a Red Flag Warning until 8 p.m. Tuesday. The warning includes the Oregon Coast from Astoria to Lincoln City. It also includes the Willamette Valley from Portland to Cottage Grove. A Red Flag Warning means conditions may be favorable for rapid fire spread, the weather service said.
Temperatures are expected to cool across metro area and Willamette Valley beginning Thursday. Zaffino forecasts Portland metro area highs to be in the mid-80s on Thursday.
Keeping cool
Even a brief two-day spell of heat can be tough on people who don't have air conditioning in their homes. Area counties have provided a list of public places where people can go to cool off.
The heat may also prompt many people to head to the water to cool off. Area agencies have reminded people to be wear life jackets, and if you go into the ocean, be aware of the dangers of rip currents on the Oregon Coast.
