Amid concerns over the safety of residents, a state of emergency has been declared in Oregon, sending people rushing to get off of the streets.
Just weeks after a deadly heatwave hit the Pacific north-west, the region is already preparing for more triple-digit temperatures. The temperature began to climb on August 11th, prompting people to rush into cooling centers and misting stations to avoid the sweltering heat.
Several towns in Oregon, such as the city of Beaverton, have designated cooling centers, which are shelters that open for residents to stay in overnight.
The Beaverton Community Center (12350 SW 5th St.) will be available for overnight, air conditioned stays.
The shelter will operate from 9pm – 10am on the following days:
Wed Aug 11 – Aug 12
Thu Aug 12 – Aug 13
Fri Aug 13 – Aug 14
Sat Aug 14 – Aug 15https://t.co/4xst03jjpZ pic.twitter.com/H3LlwbupWl— City of Beaverton (@CityofBeaverton) August 11, 2021
According to a statement from Democrat Governor Kate Brown, “Oregon is facing yet another extreme heatwave, and it is critical that every level of government has the resources they need to help keep Oregonians safe and healthy.”
The governor also commented on the impending heat wave via tweet, writing: “Another heat wave is here. Please, check on your vulnerable family, neighbors, and friends, learn the symptoms of heat-related illnesses, and find a cooling center near you if you don’t have A/C in your home. If you need additional resources, @211info is there to help.”
Another heat wave is here. Please, check on your vulnerable family, neighbors, and friends, learn the symptoms of heat-related illnesses, and find a cooling center near you if you don't have A/C in your home. If you need additional resources, @211info is there to help. pic.twitter.com/7Y8zI4JyFQ
— Governor Kate Brown (@OregonGovBrown) August 11, 2021
The state of emergency was declared on August 10th after concerns were raised over the safety of residents, especially those who do not have air conditioning. The declaration will remain in place until August 20th.
By the evening on Wednesday, August 11th, temperatures in Portland had soared to approximately 97 degrees. According to the National Weather Service, the “worst-case scenario” is that the temperature could climb as high as 111 degrees by Friday, August 13th, but the more likely scenario indicates that temperatures will hover around 100 degrees, peaking at around 105 degrees on August 12th.
Just two months ago, the Pacific north-west saw record-high temperatures, with some areas exceeding 115 degrees. This massive heat wave led to hundreds of deaths.
Portland Mayor Ted Wheeler has also declared a state of emergency.
