Excessive heat warning for much of Oregon, SW Washington extended again

PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) -- A National Weather Service excessive heat warning in effect for much of Oregon and Southwest Washington has been extended -- again -- for next week.

The excessive heat warning, which took effect on Thursday, July 4 at noon, is now slated to end on Tuesday, July 9 at 10 p.m., according to the National Weather Service on Friday afternoon. The excessive heat warning was initially slated to end on Sunday when it was first extended to Monday evening on Thursday.

Triple-digit temperatures are in the forecast through at least Tuesday.

"This heat wave has been extended," KOIN 6 Chief Meteorologist Natasha Stenbock said.

Meanwhile, a red flag warning is also now in effect for much of central Oregon starting at 4 p.m. Friday, with winds of 10 to 20 mph and gusts of up to 25 mph with relative humidity as low as 13%, according to NWS' Portland office.

Officials warn that with an excessive heat warning, there could be a significant increase in heat-related illnesses and are asking residents to stay hydrated and in air-conditioned spaces, to stay out of the sun and to check in on relatives and neighbors.

If you have to go outside, limit your activities to the early morning or evening and wear lightweight and loose clothing. And remember that sunscreen and water.