I REALLY was hoping I wouldn’t have to write this blog, and I’m not going to put a lot of time/effort into this one. Let’s just keep it short: the heatwave for early August has gone from merely “mentionable” to downright historic, in just about 72 hours.

Also remarkable for the middle of summer? It could actually get hotter in Portland and Salem, than it does in The Dalles! That sometimes happens in Fall (September and October) as well as early spring (February – April) warm spells, but very rare in July or early August. For sure it will be MORE HISTORIC, relative to climate, west of the Cascades as opposed to east.

Here is one quick map to show the hot air:

This is truly monumental:  nearly all of the highly reputable forecasting models have been consistently forecasting temps of 108-112 degrees in the Willamette Valley on Thursday! That would almost certainly be the hottest day in recorded history if it happens over there. But what about The Dalles and Eastern Gorge? Right now Weather.com and Wunderground say Friday will be the hottest day, with a max temp of “only” 107.

If we want a new record in The Dalles, we will need to hit at least 112 degrees at the airport across the river; the previous record of 111 was set on July 26 & 27, 1998. Portland Airport only needs to reach 108 for a new all-time record. I think the latter is more likely than the former. However, if DLS is destined to hit 112, the best chance would probably be either Thursday or Friday, just as the wind in the Gorge begins to shift from easterly to westerly.

If you have kids or seniors, be sure to keep them cool this week! Drink water, drench your torso in water, use your fans/AC to their fullest, hibernate for a few days, whatever it takes…