Heat wave hits Eastern Washington

RITZVILLE – An excessive heat warning remains in effect across Eastern Washington and much of north Idaho this week.

The warning issued Sunday by the National Weather Service runs until 11 p.m. Thursday.

The heat wave comes as wheat farmers across the regional are wrapping up harvest.

According to the National Weather Service, farmers and others working outdoors should be vigilant in monitoring the effects of heat-related illnesses as temperatures soar as high as 108 degrees in some areas of the Columbia Basin.

There will be "limited relief at night, with low temperatures in the mid-60s to low-70s," the National Weather Service reported.

High temperatures in Adams County are expected to reach 101 on Monday, 104 on Tuesday and 103 today, the Weather Service reported.

Thursday's high will dip to 102 degrees before the temperatures cool down for the weekend.

Friday is expected to be 20 degrees cooler than today, down to a high of 93 degrees, the forecast shows. Saturday's high will drop further, down to 84 degrees.

By Monday, the heat will give way to a moderate 76 degrees.

Overnight lows will remain in the 60s and 70s until Friday, when lows will drop into the 50s.

The National Weather Service is advising residents to prevent pets, livestock and children from being exposed to the heat of the day the remainder of the week.

"Prolonged exposure to heat can result in heat stroke and heat exhaustion," the agency said. "This type of heat will be dangerous to anyone without proper hydration or adequate cooling.

"For those without air conditioning, living spaces can become deadly during the afternoon and evening."

To avoid heat-related illnesses, the National Weather Service advises residents to drink plenty of fluids and refrain from being in the sun too long.

"Check up on relatives and neighbors," the agency said. "Do not leave young children and pets in unattended vehicles. Car interiors will reach lethal temperatures in a matter of minutes."