As parts of Oregon brace for a heat wave that beginning Sunday could deliver temperatures of up to 101 degrees, health authorities are warning residents of the danger of heat-related illness.
On Friday, the National Weather Service issued an extreme heat warning for the Portland metro, John Day basin, foothills of the Southern Blue Mountains, north central Oregon and central Oregon. The warning will be in place from noon Sunday through Tuesday morning, officials said.
"Heat related illnesses increase significantly during extreme heat events," the weather service said in a statement.
Anyone living in an area experiencing extreme heat should stay in air-conditioned spaces if possible during the hottest parts of the day, stay hydrated and avoid caffeine or alcohol, and use cool compresses, cold showers and baths to beat the heat, the Oregon Health Authority said in a statement.
For those without air conditioning, the health authority recommends staying with friends or family who have it or to find a cooling center if one is available.
"Our experience with the 2021 heat dome taught us that extreme temperatures are a real danger in Oregon," said Gabriela Goldfarb, environmental public health section manager at the health authority's Public Health Division. "We can prevent heat-related illnesses and deaths by recognizing their symptoms, taking steps to stay safe, and caring for our vulnerable family members and friends."
The agency also recommends that people familiarize themselves with indicators of heat exhaustion, which include faintness or dizziness, nausea or vomiting, fast or weak pulse and muscle cramps. People experiencing heat exhaustion are advised to move to a cooler place, drink water or lie down with loose clothing.
Authorities warn that if someone vomits and symptoms don't improve, it could be a sign of heat stroke, which includes other symptoms such as a body temperature over 103 degrees, headache and loss of consciousness. If someone is showing signs of heat stroke, officials recommend calling 911 immediately.