Heat is on: Advisory issued, caution urged during hot weather

June 3, 2009 3:01 pm
Some found relief from Wednesday's heat in the comfort of cold water running at the Les Gove Park playground. Temperatures in Auburn reached into the 80s
Some found relief from Wednesday's heat in the comfort of cold water running at the Les Gove Park playground. Temperatures in Auburn reached into the 80s

The National Weather Service issued a heat advisory in the Seattle-Tacoma area on Wednesday. The advisory, which began at 2 p.m. today, is expected to end Thursday around 6 p.m.

Temperatures today and Thursday afternoon might reach near record levels by rising into the 80s to 90s.

Seattle recorded its hottest June 3 ever, with a record-breaking 89 degrees by 5 p.m. That was 2 degrees higher than the previous record, set in 1978, according to the National Weather Service.

At late-afternoon Wednesday, Auburn was baking in 89-degree heat, according to AccuWeather.com.

Due to the urban heat island effect and an offshore breeze moving down off the Cascades, the night time temperature is expected to drop to about 60 degrees. Rising dew point temperatures and lighter breezes might make it feel a bit muggier and more uncomfortable on Thursday.

A heat advisory means that a period of hot temperatures is expected. The combination of hot temperatures and rather high humidity create a situation in which heat illnesses are possible.

Be sure to drink plenty of water, as other beverages may not keep you hydrated. Try to stay in an air-conditioned room if possible and out of the sun if possible. Check on relatives and neighbors, particularly those with health issues that may them more susceptible to heat illnesses.

Attending a movie, going to the mall, or spending time in any air conditioned location are good ways to stay cool.

The Auburn Senior Center at 808 9th St. SE is open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. today and Thursday with all ages welcome during the heat advisory.

Do not leave pets or children in the car while you run an errand. The temperature in a vehicle is much higher than outside and it only takes a few minutes for severe problems and possible death to occur.

Remember that area lakes and rivers are still cold so escaping the heat by jumping into a cold lake or river can lead to death by hypothermia or drowning.