Due to the high temperatures expected this weekend, the National Weather Service (NWS) has issued an excessive heat warning for parts of the Puget Sound. Temperatures are expected to be in the upper 80s to lower 90s Thursday through Saturday, Aug. 18-20.
Pierce County’s Department of Emergency Management reminds everyone to stay out of the heat as much as possible, stay hydrated, and to check on elderly relatives and neighbors during this time. We recommend you check on those with chronic health concerns as they might be more susceptible to heat related illnesses. Do not leave children or pets in cars unattended - temperatures can quickly become deadly.
Citizens are encouraged to take advantage of cooler air in public buildings such as Pierce County libraries, local malls, movie theaters, and other large stores.
The following locations allow domesticated pets to come in with their owners to get out of the heat. Pets need to be on a leash or in a crate and owners must provide water if they plan on being in the facility for long periods of time.
- Petco: hours may vary store to store
- PetSmart: 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday to Saturday, and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday
Air quality is also expected to decline on Friday and Saturday and could affect unhealthy individuals.
The combination of hot temperatures, low relative humidity, and breezy conditions could contribute to a high fire danger across much of Western Washington. NWS has issued a red flag warning. This means that critical fire weather conditions (hot, dry and windy) are forecast to occur starting Thursday morning.
For more information on those most at risk and how to avoid heat-related illnesses visit the Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department or the National Weather Service websites.
For hot weather safety information visit Washington State Department of Health’s website. Information in other languages are also available on the webpage.
MEDIA CONTACTS:
Sarah Foster, Public Information Officer
(253) 798-7470
[email protected]