SEATTLE — A Heat Advisory is in effect for much of the Puget Sound region as temperatures are expected to reach the mid 80s to mid 90s again Thursday.
The Heat Advisory issued by the National Weather Service (NWS) will be in effect for most of the region until midnight Thursday.
The NWS also issued an Excessive Heat Warning for areas along the west slopes of the Cascades from the US-Canada border south to Lewis County. The warning went into effect at noon Wednesday and will last until midnight Thursday. The NWS said “dangerously hot conditions” with highs in the 90s are expected in Cascade Valleys Thursday.
ALSO SEE: Western Washington Forecast
The NWS issued the advisories warning residents that the extended heat could pose a moderate-to-significant risk of heat-related illnesses, “especially those who are heat sensitive and those without effective cooling or adequate hydration."
A Red Flag Warning is also in effect for the western slopes of the north and central Cascades, generally in areas above 1,500 feet. The warning went into effect at 11 a.m. Wednesday and will be lifted at 10 p.m. Thursday.
A Red Flag Warning means warm temperatures, very low humidity and strong winds are expected to combine to contribute to increased fire danger.
The heat is expected to peak on Thursday with highs in the mid 80s to low to mid 90s, with some of the hotter spots near the Cascade foothills pushing the upper 90s. Daily record highs Thursday are only in the upper 80s and lower 90s, so there's a chance we could hit or exceed those daily records.
There is also a chance of mountain thunderstorms later in the day on Thursday.
Unlike last month, the heat isn’t expected to last long. A weak weather system will brush by the state on Friday, increasing onshore winds. This will cool most places in the Puget Sound region back to the upper 70s and low 80s. There may be a chance of a few showers Friday afternoon and evening on the Kitsap and Olympic peninsulas, but it won't be much.
The summer weather continues through the weekend with partly to mostly sunny skies and highs staying in the pleasant mid 70s to low 80s.
These above-average temperatures come after the Seattle area had a record six straight days of 90-plus degrees at the end of July and four days of 90-plus degrees so far this month. Those 10 days marked the third most 90-plus degree days in a year in recorded history.
As the temperatures rise, understanding your body's warning signs can help protect you against potentially life-threatening illnesses.
Signs of heat exhaustion:
- Faint or dizzy
- Excessive sweating
- Cool, pale or clammy skin
- Rapid, weak pulse
- Muscle cramps
- Nausea or vomiting
Treating possible heat exhaustion:
- Get to a cool, air-conditioned place
- Drink water
- Take a cool shower or use a cold compress
Signs of heatstroke:
- Throbbing headache
- No sweating
- Red, hot, dry skin
- Rapid, strong pulse
- Possible loss of consciousness
- Nausea or vomiting
If you or a family member is suffering from heatstroke, immediate attention is necessary, so call 911.
Download the KING 5 app to check the interactive radar near you, as well as the latest forecast, cameras and current conditions.
