Excessive Heat Warning - City of White Salmon to Open Cooling Shelter on Saturday (Address Corrected)

The National Weather Service has issued an excessive heat warning in effect from 2pm this afternoon until 8pm PT Thursday July, 1. Dangerously hot conditions with temperatures of 105 to 111 degrees Fahrenheit are expected. The extreme heat will significantly increase the potential for heat related illnesses, particularly for those working or participating in outdoor activities. High temperatures and dry conditions also increase wildfire risk. All of Klickitat County is under a burn ban.

If you need a place to be out of the heat over the next few days, the City of White Salmon will be operating a cooling shelter at the Fire Hall (119 NE Church) from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Saturday through Tuesday, June 26 – June 29. Per current COVID-19 guidelines, vaccinated individuals do not need to wear a mask indoors; those who are unvaccinated need to wear a mask and maintain distance from others using the facility. Fans are not enough when the temperature and humidity are too high; stay indoors with the air conditioning on or go to a public place like the library or cooling shelter.

The Washington State Department of Health (DOH) is urging people to take precautions, stay cool, and protect themselves during this extended heat event:

Stay indoors and in an air-conditioned environment as much as possible. Visit friends, family or neighbors with air conditioning or spend time in air-conditioned public places. If you are not fully vaccinated against COVID-19, make sure to wear a mask whenever you’re indoors with people who don’t live with you.

If air conditioning is not available to you, pulling window shades closed throughout the day when the sun is on the windows will help keep the inside cooler. Do not rely on a fan as your only cooling source. While fans might provide some comfort, they won’t prevent heat-related illness when temperatures are very hot. Use your stove and oven less to maintain a cooler temperature in your home.

Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of fluids but avoid beverages that contain alcohol, caffeine or a lot of sugar. Carry water with you and don’t wait until you’re thirsty to drink.

Help those who are vulnerable or at higher risk. Check in frequently with family, friends and neighbors who are elderly, ill or may need help. Avoid dressing babies and children in heavy clothing or wrapping them in warm blankets. Keep outdoor pets safe in the heat, make sure they have protection from heat and sun and access to cold, fresh water. Asphalt gets very hot and can burn your pet's paws, walk on grass if possible. Never leave any person or pet in a parked vehicle.

If you do go outside, protect yourself from heat and sun. Sunburn slows the skin's ability to cool itself, so make sure to use sunscreen with a high SPF rating. Wear a wide-brimmed hat and light-colored, loose-fitting clothes. Seek shade in parks and greenspaces where it will be cooler than in paved areas.

If you are working outside, try to plan strenuous activities for early or late in the day when temperatures are cooler. Take frequent breaks and hydrate regularly. Employers should take steps to protect people who work outdoors, including adjusting work schedules and activities, providing access to water and monitoring workers for illness.

If you notice symptoms of heat illness (dizziness, nausea, headaches, muscle cramps), act immediately. Move to a cooler location to rest for a few minutes and seek medical attention immediately if you do not feel better.  

Avoid extreme temperature changes. Taking a cold shower right after coming in from the heat or jumping into cold water when swimming outside can cause rapid changes in your breathing, heart rate and blood pressure and even cause hypothermia.

Follow water safety tips if you go swimming or boating. Remember that swimming in open water is very different from swimming in a pool and make sure to wear a life jacket that fits you.