Heat advisory issued for Columbia Basin

MOSES LAKE — Temperatures could get hot enough to be downright dangerous this week. The National Weather Service, or NWS, has issued a heat advisory for the Columbia Basin, with temperatures forecast to be in excess of 100 degrees Tuesday and Thursday.

And though temperatures will drop closer to normal by Saturday, the winds that accompany the transition could increase the fire danger.

Steven Van Horn, meteorologist with the National Weather Service, said temperatures are forecast to surpass the 100-degree mark and could reach 105 degrees.

“We’re definitely into that time of year where we get our hottest temperatures of the summer,” Van Horn said.

Temperatures are forecast to be three to five degrees cooler on Wednesday, but it’s so hot even a three- to five-degree drop means it will still be nearly 100 degrees, he said. Friday, too, is forecast to be about 98 degrees.

It’s the fault of a ridge of high pressure over the region, he said, which is a pretty normal weather pattern for July. Weather patterns to the north also play a role.

“We get a trough (of low pressure) that digs down in the Gulf of Alaska and that helps strengthen the ridge over our area,” Van Horn said. With that ridge in place, hot air moves up from the Southwest, bringing triple-digit temperatures with it.

Temperatures are expected to start cooling down by Friday, with 88 to 90 degrees the forecast high on Saturday. But the transition to cooler temperatures brings with it the likelihood of increased winds. The shifting weather fronts also could kick off some thunderstorms.

“Thunderstorms and not a lot of rain,” Van Horn said. “A classic setup.”

The NWS advisory said people should keep inside, out of the sun, and stay in an air-conditioned space if possible. People should also drink plenty of fluids.

Senior citizens and people with medical conditions could be at a higher risk during a heat wave. Families and friends should check on people who might be at higher risk.

Strenuous activity should be restricted to the cooler parts of the day. The Washington Department of Health said people should be aware of the symptoms of heat stroke or heat exhaustion, which include dizziness, headaches, nausea and muscle cramps. People experiencing any of those symptoms should cease activity, move to a cooler location and slowly drink a cool beverage. If symptoms persist people should seek immediate medical assistance.

Cheryl Schweizer can be reached via email at [email protected].