Records fall as ‘life-threatening’ heat wave blankets Pacific Northwest

AccuWeather forecasters are calling for record-shattering heat to linger into next week, not only making life miserable for a part of the country where air conditioning is not prevalent but also posing a significant health risk to millions.

High temperatures well into the triple digits are forecast throughout parts of Oregon and Washington, which includes the Interstate 5 corridor. Both Portland, Ore., which could see the mercury crack the 110-degree mark, and Seattle, which is expected to top 100, will see temperatures soar 30 to 40 degrees above normal.

Points farther inland are likely to have temperatures balloon to above 115. Average highs in June can be anywhere from the 70s in eastern Washington and Oregon to the 80s in western areas and into Idaho.