The National Weather Service issued a heat advisory for a region of the state that includes Benton County to be in effect from noon Tuesday until 10 p.m. Wednesday.
Temperatures in the Philomath vicinity are predicted to reach the low 90s on Tuesday and the mid-90s on Wednesday. Some relief could occur overnight Tuesday and Wednesday with temperatures getting down into the 60s.
The alert adds that there is a 50-80% chance in the region included in the heat advisory that temperatures will reach 100 degrees on Wednesday.
“Drink plenty of fluids, stay in a cool place during the heat of the day, stay out of the sunshine and check up on relatives and neighbors,” advises the National Weather Service office out of Portland. “For those without air conditioning, use fans to keep air moving. Keep windows closed during the day and open at night, unless air quality is degraded due to wildfire smoke.”
High temperatures in Philomath are predicted to not be as extreme Thursday and Friday with a high of 84 each of those days, followed by the low 80s over the weekend and high 70s early next week.
Heat-related illnesses increase significantly during extreme heat events. The Oregon Health Authority published information online about preventing heat-related illness.
“Take extra precautions when outside,” the NWS advises. “Wear lightweight and loose fitting clothing. Try to limit strenuous activities to early morning or evening. Take action when you see symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke.”
In addition, the public is advised to not leave young children and pets in unattended vehicles with car interiors able to reach lethal temperatures in a matter of minutes.
Cooling centers, indoor sites that are free for the public to access during designated hours, are typically available. According to Benton County, Philomath Community Library (1050 Applegate St.) offers relief during its operating hours — Monday, Thursday and Friday from 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Tuesday and Wednesday from 9 a.m.-7 p.m., and Saturday from 10 a.m.-2 p.m.