Western Washington could experience its most significant stretch of hot weather so far this year as forecasters warn that temperatures are expected to climb later this week and into next week.
The National Weather Service in Seattle says confidence is increasing that much of the region, including the Seattle metropolitan area, will see substantially warmer temperatures, with a growing risk of hazardous heat conditions developing during the coming days. According to the agency’s latest briefing, the likelihood of a more impactful heat event has increased compared with earlier forecasts.
The outlook places Seattle and communities south of the city in a moderate-risk area for hazardous temperatures between June 15 and June 21, indicating a 40% to 60% chance of unusually hot conditions.
Before temperatures rise, forecasters are also watching a weather system expected to move across Western Washington on Tuesday. The system could bring isolated thunderstorms capable of producing lightning, gusty winds, small hail and brief periods of heavy rainfall.
While many residents welcome the arrival of summer weather, public health officials routinely caution that extreme heat can create serious health risks, particularly for older adults, infants and young children, people with chronic medical conditions, outdoor workers and individuals experiencing homelessness.
Communities of color and lower-income neighborhoods can also be disproportionately affected during extreme heat events because of limited access to air conditioning, cooling spaces and other resources that help people stay safe during prolonged periods of high temperatures.
The National Weather Service’s latest outlook calls for above-normal temperatures and below-normal precipitation across much of Western Washington during the next six to 10 days. Forecasters also warn that hotter and drier conditions could elevate fire weather concerns in some areas later this week and next week.
Health experts recommend staying hydrated, limiting strenuous outdoor activity during the hottest parts of the day, checking on elderly family members and neighbors, and seeking shade or air-conditioned spaces when temperatures become unusually high.
The National Weather Service says it will continue monitoring conditions and provide updated forecasts as confidence in the timing and intensity of the potential heat event improves.
