Record Heat: Northwest United States Sees Fires And Triple Digit Temperatures During Heatwave

The mercury was rising fast over the weekend in the Pacific Northwest. Record heat in the Northwest corner of the United States is causing fires and temperatures to hit 111 degrees Fahrenheit during the first full week of summer. Temperatures in the Pacific Northwest are expected to be 20 degrees higher than normal for this time of the year. Weather reports say that the record heat in the Northwest is going to last until well into early July. Paul Pastelok, AccuWeather chief long-range meteorologist, says relief for the Northwest could be seen in the middle of July.

“Prior to the middle of July, a series of storms from the Pacific will attempt to chop down the heat in the Northwest. The pattern shift could cause extreme heat in the Southwest, prior to another surge of moisture and a ramp up of the monsoon in the region.”

Along with the record heat, scattered severe storms will also be seen in the Northwest. Due to the severe drought that this part of the United States has seen, lightning strikes can spark a fire that could burn out of control due to the severe dryness in the area.

In Wenatchee, Washington, a fire caused residents to evacuate hundreds of homes in the area. The Sleepy Hollow fire was able to spread so rapidly due to high winds, low humidity, and dry ground. Parts of the Northwest are in red flag warning for fire today. Weather forecasts in the region are calling for winds to reach 35 mph and lightning strikes that will likely ignite new fires. The Sleep Hollow fire is more than likely going to be spreading further to east today as well. Over the last month, firefighters have been battling wildfires in California, Alaska, and now Washington. Oregon and Idaho are currently in a fire warning.

The record heat in the Northwest is causing weather forecasters to remind people how to avoid heat-related illnesses. Keeping yourself hydrated is one of the most important factors in staying healthy during a record-breaking heatwave. Other safety tips include avoiding strenuous activity and wearing light clothing. People are also being reminded to not leave pets or children inside of parked vehicles. The temperature inside of vehicles can quickly reach up to 150 degrees Fahrenheit during a heatwave like the one the Northwest is going through.

Forecasts show that the heatwave will be heading into Canada.

Do you think this summer will be seeing a lot of record breaking heatwaves around the world?

[Image via 6Abc.com]