Portland & Multnomah County Declare Heat Emergency as Temperatures Soar, air Quality Declines
Portland, OR – August 23, 2024 – Facing possibly record-breaking temperatures and deteriorating air quality, Multnomah County and the City of Portland have jointly declared a state of emergency, effective instantly. Officials are bracing for a prolonged heat wave expected to peak at 100°F and persist through the middle of next week, posing notable health risks to residents.
The declaration triggers a multi-faceted response aimed at protecting vulnerable populations, including the opening of cooling centers and expanded library hours. Two designated cooling centers will operate from noon to 9 p.m. on Saturday, August 23rd, offering respite, water, and a safe surroundings for individuals and their pets. These locations are:
Multnomah County East Building: Located in Gresham. Friendly House: Located in Portland.
Along with the cooling centers, three Portland-area libraries will extend their operating hours until 8 p.m. to provide air-conditioned spaces: Central Library, Gresham Library, and Midland Library.
Air Quality Concerns Escalate
The heat wave is coinciding with a significant decline in air quality. The Oregon Department of Environmental Quality has issued an air quality advisory for the Portland Metro area due to elevated ozone levels, expected to last through Monday, August 25th.Residents are strongly advised to remain indoors in air-conditioned environments and limit all unneeded driving.
Adding to the concern, Multnomah County has implemented a mandatory restriction on wood burning – the first “red day” restriction of 2024. This measure is in addition to existing burn bans issued by the Multnomah County Fire Defense Board to mitigate wildfire risk. Details on wood-burning restrictions can be found here. Details on the fire bans is available here.
County Prioritizes Vulnerable Populations
Multnomah County Chair Jessica Vega Pederson underscored the seriousness of the situation. “This will likely be the hottest weather and highest heat risk that Multnomah County will experience this year. Please take the health risks of this coming heat wave extremely seriously,” she stated.
The County’s Homeless Services Department is actively deploying street outreach teams to distribute essential supplies and information about cooling center locations to individuals experiencing homelessness.
Recognizing transportation barriers, TriMet will offer free rides to cooling centers for those unable to pay fares between 11 a.m.and 10 p.m.on Saturday.
Resources for Residents
Residents are urged to check on elderly neighbors,individuals with pre-existing health conditions,and those without access to adequate cooling.
For assistance locating a cooling center or securing transportation, dial 211. An interactive map of cooling center locations is available here.
Authorities will continue to monitor conditions and provide updates as the heat wave progresses. Residents are encouraged to stay informed and prioritize their health and safety.
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