‘Check on friends, family’ in these record-heat spells

PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) — Portland is no stranger to summer temperatures. Record-breaking heat is expected to hit the region this weekend. But the heat dome that grew over the Pacific Northwest in 2021 quickly became deadly, killing nearly 100 people in Multnomah County alone.

Since then, the number of deaths from extreme heat has dramatically dropped in the region. The City of Portland and health officials in Multnomah County have stepped up efforts to keep people safe.

But emergency room visits due to the heat remain high.

“We’re making sure we’re working with our partners to ensure that libraries are open malls, community centers are open this weekend, air conditioned spaces for people to go to cool off if they don’t have air conditioning at home,” said Dr. Richard Bruno, the health officer in Multnomah County.

The temps have not yet reached a threshold where cooling center will open. But the big concern is people who live alone.

“The past four years, two out of three deaths from heat-related illness were men over the age of 50,” said Dr. Richard Bruno, the health officer in Multnomah County. “So we’re really encouraging people to check on your neighbors, checking on your family members, check on your friends. make sure that they have the ability to stay cool.

The City of Portland is also working to keep people cool through the Cooling Portland program. Funded through the Portland Clean Energy Fund, it deliver and installs air conditioning units to Portlanders most at risk for heat-related illness.

Last year, the Portland City Council approved more than $10 million to the program to help 10,000 households for the next two years. But there is a wait list to get a unit. To apply, simply call 311.

The interactive fountains around the city are already open, and the splash pads are set to open June 14.

KOIN 6 News will have more information later.