Excessive heat is forecast for the days ahead in the Pacific Northwest, with highs in our area expected in the 90s and possibly reaching triple digits. Community members are encouraged to review summer safety precautions and take steps to protect yourself and your family during unseasonably high temperatures.
In addition, leaders of local organizations are working together to provide water and shade in various locations for anyone who needs it.
Links to helpful resources
Various weather, emergency services, public health and other organizations are providing information via social media and websites to help prevent heat-related health and safety impacts. Here are just a few of the many helpful resources available:
- Stay cool and hydrated to prevent heat illness (Whatcom County Health Department): Forecasts predict temperatures reaching into the 100s in parts of Whatcom County. Make sure you’re able to stay cool this weekend.
- Hot weather safety and Remember summer safety precautions (Washington State Department of Health): Severe heat may cause illness or even death. When temperatures rise to extreme highs, reduce risks by taking precautions. (Information provided in multiple languages)
- Keep your cool in hot weather (Centers for Disease Control): High temperatures kill hundreds of people every year. Learn about heat-related illness and how to stay cool and safe in hot weather.
- Heat safety tips and resources (National Weather Service): An excellent and comprehensive collection of heat safety resources for everyone, including children and pets.
Health, safety and vulnerable populations
City and County emergency medical and public safety officials will be on high alert all weekend and early next week, monitoring for public health and safety impacts of excessive heat, especially among vulnerable populations such as homebound seniors and people living unsheltered. They also will be alert to safety concerns at crowded parks, swimming areas and other popular recreation sites.
Additional services are being coordinated by the Whatcom County Health Department and City of Bellingham during the days when high temperatures are anticipated, including:
Bellingham Public Library
The Central Library at 210 Central Avenue in Bellingham will offer water 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, June 26, and Monday, June 28.
Bellingham Public Schools
The Bellingham High School cafeteria at 2020 Cornwall Avenue will be open 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday, Sunday, Monday, June 26, 27, 28, offering air conditioned indoor space and water.
Whatcom Transportation Authority
At Bellingham Station (205 E Magnolia Street in downtown Bellingham):
- Bottled water available during the hours of 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday, Sunday, and Monday
- Indoor water fountains
- Air conditioned indoor waiting area
At Cordata Station (4194 Cordata Parkway near Whatcom Community College):
- Bottled water available during the hours of 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday, Sunday, and Monday
- Outdoor water fountains
- No indoor waiting area
The bus is fare free until July 1, and a good way to reach cooling stations and other community resources.
Whatcom County Library System
Air conditioned indoor spaces are available at many WCLS locations during library open hours. In addition, bottled water will be available at WCLS’ Deming, North Fork (Kendall), Sumas, Everson and Lynden branches during open hours, Saturday, Sunday, Monday, June 26, 27, 28. See locations and hours at www.wcls.org/info.
Lighthouse Mission Ministries Base Camp
In addition to local government efforts, Lighthouse Mission Ministries will have water, sunscreen, covered outdoor areas and air conditioned indoor areas available to anyone at its Base Camp shelter, 1530 Cornwall Avenue.
