The Chicago Journal

Portland and Seattle Record New Heatwave Highs; How to Get Through the High Temperatures

On Sunday, Seattle and Portland experienced consecutive high temperatures, forcing officials to investigate more heat-related deaths.

Oregon and Seattle

The coroner’s office said it was investigating 10 deaths and believed the cause was heat-related.

In Seattle, temperatures soared to 91 degrees on Sunday afternoon, marking the sixth consecutive day of over 90 degrees.

Temperatures in the Portland area have risen multiple times over 100 degrees in the past week. Officials said the cold shelter would remain open until Sunday evening.

Warnings

The U.S. National Weather Service issued a severe temperature warning for the Portland and Seattle areas, which lasted until late Sunday night. Cooler temperatures were expected on Monday as the air in the Pacific cooled.

Adjustment

In the Northwest, residents and officials have tried to adjust to the reality of longer, warmer heat waves following last year’s “heat dome” weather event that resulted in record temperatures and deaths.

2021

Between late June and early July last year, more than 800 people died in Oregon, Washington, and British Columbia, Canada.

Temperatures hit a record 116 degrees Celsius in Portland.

How do you survive the heat wave without air conditioning?

The heat is unbearable and air conditioning seems like the immediate solution, but there are other ways around it. 

There are several steps people can take to combat the heat wave.

Eliminate extra heat sources

If it’s already hot, you can reduce the heat by turning off unnecessary heat-producing lights.

It also helps reduce the use of computers and devices.

Eliminate excess heat in your home by eating meals that don’t require an oven or stove. hydration

In hot weather, especially if you sweat a lot, it is important to drink more than usual.

Avoid alcohol and caffeine

Hydration is important, but caffeine and alcoholic beverages act as diuretics and promote dehydration.

Use box fans and ceiling fans

Open doors and windows let in air, but they also bring in warm air from outside. Box and ceiling fans allow you to expel hot air and cold air.

However, it is best to close the doors and windows early in the morning to keep the indoor air cool.

When it gets a little cold, safely open the windows and turn the fan back on.

Walking to cold spaces

You may not be able to stand the heat, but it’s good to sweat to go to air-conditioned places (shopping malls, cinemas, bookstores).

Cool off with water

Staying hydrated, soaking and showering are separate things, but you can also fill a bucket or bathtub with enough water to soak your feet.

You can also opt for a refreshing towel or bandana.

Additional Notes

High temperatures affect both animals and people, so pet owners should think about how warm the earth is before taking their pet for a walk.

But the heat is also inevitable inside.

Pet owners can place cool towels or washcloths on the floor or fans to keep their pets cool.

References:

Heat wave sets records in Seattle and Portland

11 tips for surviving a heat wave without air-conditioning

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