SEATTLE — Severe weather protocols are in place with cities across Washington activating their emergency resources amid high temperatures.
Thurston County declared a four-day, four-night hazardous weather event. Around the region there are cooling shelters available as the temperature could exceed 90-degrees this weekend and into early next week in some places.
For Takiyah Miller, Saturday was a perfect day to be in Pioneer Square. The afternoon temperature was in the mid-80s with sunny skies, which will be a pattern for the coming days.
"Lots of traffic. People coming through for the games,” said Miller.
Miller owns the Tea Moss Shop, and she was selling sea moss infused lemonades during a festival on Saturday during the height of the heat.
"It can get really dangerous,” said Miller. "Every year it is people panicking, looking for air conditioners and fans."
With temperatures expected to rise in the coming days, cooling canopies are popping up, offering fans and free water.
"That hydration is so important,” said Miller.
On the other side of the park, visitor Jessica Varela was having a good time during her Seattle vacation.
"We are enjoying the weather,” said Varela. "To me, I don’t mind it. I love it."
Miller said she has been counting down the days for the warmer weather.
"I think that we have been waiting for this moment for a long time. You know how they usually say summer doesn't start until after the fourth of July, and here we are,” said Miller. "It is going to be a great day."