In preparation for dangerously high temperatures forecast to exceed 100 degrees with little overnight cooling, Multnomah County Chair Jessica Vega Pederson has declared a state of emergency, effective today, Aug. 11, at noon. The declaration triggers the opening of cooling centers, extended library hours, and expanded outreach to protect vulnerable residents from the effects of extreme heat.
Three daytime cooling centers will open from noon to 9 p.m. today, offering food, water, and a safe space from the heat. Pets are welcome and no one will be turned away. The locations are:
• Gateway Church, 13300 N.E. San Rafael St., Portland (operated by Cultivate Initiatives)
• Congregation Beth Israel, 1972 N.W. Flanders St., Portland (operated by Do Good Multnomah)
• Portland Covenant Church, 4046 N.E. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., Portland (operated by Multnomah County)
Four Multnomah County library branches will also extend their hours until 8 p.m. tonight to serve as cooling spaces: Albina Library (205 N.E. Russell St.), Central Library (801 S.W. 10th Ave.), Gresham Library (385 N.W. Miller Ave.), and Midland Library (805 S.E. 122nd Ave.).
In addition to cooling centers and libraries, more than 70 cool spaces — including community centers, government buildings, malls such as Lloyd Center, pools, and splash pads — are available across the county. Locations are listed on Multnomah County’s interactive map at multco.us/hot.
TriMet is waiving fares from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. today for anyone traveling to or from a cooling site who cannot pay. Riders should tell the bus operator they are headed to a cooling location.
For help finding a cool space or arranging transportation, residents can dial 2-1-1.
The National Weather Service has issued a heat advisory, with temperatures staying near or above 70 degrees overnight before climbing again on Tuesday. The forecast suggests some relief may arrive Tuesday night, but the Health Department warns that back-to-back days of extreme heat with warm nights can be especially dangerous for people in apartments without air conditioning.
“With two more hot days and warm nights on the way, everyone should make a plan to stay safe,” said Health Officer Dr. Richard Bruno.
Data from the county shows that two-thirds of heat-related deaths since 2021 were men over 50, most living alone without air conditioning. Veterans have been disproportionately affected, accounting for roughly half of recent heat deaths.
“It’s going to be dangerously hot the next few days, and we want to make sure people in our community are staying safe by avoiding heat and checking on neighbors and loved ones who may be at increased risk of heat-related illness,” said Dr. Bruno. “Air conditioning is very protective against heat and could save your life. If you’re worried about the cost, think of it as an investment in your health, or reach out to 2-1-1 to learn about utility assistance programs.”
Ahead of the heat wave, the county contacted property managers, veterans, seniors, and people experiencing homelessness to ensure they had information and resources. Outreach teams from the Homeless Services Department are distributing supplies and information to people living outside. Cooling kits containing towels and safety information have also been distributed through community organizations, events, libraries, and apartment complexes in high-risk areas.
County agencies and partners have been meeting daily with more than 140 staff from cities and organizations to coordinate services, guided by National Weather Service briefings. Cooling centers will remain open as long as needed, with additional sites activated if conditions require.
If you see someone in heat distress, offer help or assist them in reaching a cool space. For non-emergency welfare checks in Portland, call 503-823-3333. For medical emergencies, call 9-1-1 immediately.
