Temperatures in the Portland area are expected to hit the 90s on the Fourth of July, but Multnomah County officials so far have no plans to open cooling shelters.
Libraries also will be closed for the holiday, limiting options for residents without air conditioning.
The National Weather Service for Portland has issued a heat advisory for the Portland area, the Willamette Valley and Southwest Washington for Tuesday and Wednesday. Forecasts shows moderate heat risk during the two-day period.
Multnomah County officials will be monitoring the forecast and will adjust plans as needed, said Denis Theriault, a spokesperson for the county.
The Joint Office of Homeless Services has been providing outreach since Wednesday, offering hot weather supplies to the unsheltered homeless population, Theriault said. That will continue into this week, he added.
Shopping centers and stores may be open during the Fourth of July, but hours will vary. For those in Portland, Pioneer Place will be open from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Those in need of a place to cool down should dial 2-1-1. Sustained hot weather poses risks for heat stroke, and people should monitor themselves and their neighbors for symptoms of hyperthermia including confusion, nausea and rapid breathing.
— Austin De Dios; austindedios@oregonian.com; @austindedios; 503-319-9744
