This week we are expecting a stretch of very warm and hot weather that can be dangerous to everyone, especially those who do not have access to effective cooling systems or adequate hydration . The National Weather Service Seattle forecast has a heat advisory from 12 p.m. (noon) on Tuesday through Wednesday evening at (July 15-16). Temperatures are expected to reach the low to mid 90s. This is likely to bring high risk for much of the population, especially those who are heat sensitive and those without effective cooling and/or adequate hydration. Fire risks are high as well, so be extra cautious as you are out and about.

Going to a movie theater, a mall, or the library to cool off may be the best way possible for most of us in King County.

For those experienceing homelessness and looking to get out of the heat, King County Regional Homeless Authority has identified locations to assist.

Public Health – Seattle & King County has shared many ways to stay cool and safe during hot weather and ways to beat the heat.

King County Metro riders can find heat-related information and how to stay cool and safe on Metro during the heat.

There is a Stage 1 Burn Ban in unincorporated King County.

Links to cooling centers and other places to stay cool in King County

• Algona – Community Center
• Federal Way – Community Center

For everyone when days are hot:

• Keep window blinds or curtains closed when outdoor temperatures skyrocket. This reduces indoor temps and reduces the strain on cooling equipment, if in use.
• Keep windows and doors closed in locations with air conditioning.
• Drink plenty of fluids (but avoid alcohol, caffeine, or lots of sugar that can make you lose body fluid).
• Dress in layers to manage varying temperatures.
• Minimize extended time outside.
• Turn off unnecessary lights and unplug unused electrical equipment.
• Take a tepid shower or bath to cool down.
• Avoid hot and heavy meals that can raise your body temperature.
• Check on vulnerable family or neighbors by phone or text to make sure they are safe and cool.
• NEVER leave pets or children in a hot car. Call 9-1-1 if you see a child or pet in a hot car.
• For summer tips for pets, Regional Animal Services of King County (RASKC) can help you out.
• Learn the warning signs of heat illness that happens when the body can’t cool down. If someone has heat stroke, they need to call 9-1-1 or go to the emergency room immediately.

If you must be outside:

• The most important thing to do is to drink lots of water. When it’s really hot, drink up to a quart of water every hour with moderate to heavy physical activity.
• Carry a water bottle.
• Consider sports drinks for electrolyte replacement when sweating a lot.
• Wear loose, light clothing with materials designed to wick sweat.
• Wear a hat with a brim.
• Check with your supervisor about adjusting your work hours to start earlier, when it’s cooler.
• Stop all activity if you become lightheaded, confused, weak, faint or have a pounding heart or trouble breathing.
• Although the lakes, rivers and streams can be a tempting way to cool down, remember to get used to the cold water slowly and wear personal protective devices to be safe in the water.

Water safety

• For details on river safety, visit kingcounty.gov/riversafety.
• For information on water safety and drowning prevention, visit the King County Water Safety website
• By law, children 12 years old and younger must wear a U.S. Coast Guard approved life jacket at all times in a moving vessel less than 19 feet in length, unless in a fully enclosed area. You can borrow a lifejacket from a lifejacket loaner stations at these locations Lifejacket Loaner Stations