Record-breaking temperatures are predicted to hit Central Oregon after Fourth of July with thermometers hitting the low 100s, and above-normal temperatures lingering as long as the next two weeks.

The high temperatures are expected to begin in the 80s on Wednesday, climbing to the low 90s on Thursday, according to Colby Goatley, meteorologist at the National Weather Service in Pendleton.

On Friday and into the weekend, temperatures are predicted to reach the upper 90s to low 100s .

The National Weather Service on Tuesday issued an extreme heat watch for much of Central and Eastern Oregon, including Bend, Redmond, Madras, Prineville and surrounding areas. It warns of “dangerously hot conditions” of 100 degrees and higher Friday through Tuesday and possibly longer.

The normal high for Bend during this time of year is 81 degrees, and the record-breaking temperatures are expected to persist for the next week-and-a-half to two weeks, according to the weather service.

During the heatwave, Goatley suggests checking in with those vulnerable to heat, such as the elderly or those with heat sensitivities, to make sure they have access to air conditioning and water.

Shelter available

Deschutes County does not plan to open emergency shelters, according to Emily Horton, program manage for Deschutes County Emergency Preparedness. However, the county’s designated cooling centers web page lists spaces in Bend, Redmond and nearby areas for cooling during the hot weather.

Local shelters in Bend may be increasing capacity during the heat. One of these shelters is The Shepherd’s House in Bend, which is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Shepherd’s House has upped its resources with more water, sunblock and summer gear — tank tops, T-shirts, flip-flops — according to Evan Hendrix, director of navigation services at Shepherd’s House.

The shelter expects to add more mats for beds for those in search of cool spaces overnight this week.

Deschutes County piloted a program in June where it distributed heat stress kits to community-based organizations to deliver to those unable to visit shelters. Heat stress kits are packed with water, cooling blankets and informational guides for extreme weather conditions.

Staying cool

Horton recommends people pay attention to their bodies and avoid being outside during the hottest parts of the day. This also means knowing the difference between heat exhaustion versus heat stroke.

Heat exhaustion symptoms include dizziness, thirst, heavy sweating, nausea and weakness. If not acted on quickly, heat exhaustion can escalate to heat stroke. Those facing heat exhaustion should move to a cooler space, loosen their clothing and drink chilled water, according to Deschutes County.

Those witnessing or showing symptoms of heat stroke — confusion, dizziness or passing out — should call 911, Horton said.

Hendrix encourages people to carry an extra case of bottled water in their vehicles to hand out to those who appear overheated or dehydrated.

“Heat exhaustion is a serious threat and heat stroke is something we see happen every summer,” Hendrix said. “Having citizens out there that at least have some really basic supplies in their vehicle is always just great.”

For those who plan to exercise, Horton suggests doing so in the early morning or late evening when the weather is cooler.

Horton also recommends wearing lightweight clothing, using an air conditioner or fan if available, taking cold showers or baths and drinking more water than usual.

To keep indoor spaces cool, Horton suggests using air conditioning if available or turning on fans in the evening weather and closing windows and doors to keep the cool air inside.

“Make sure you’re watching out for your pets as well,” said Goatley, of the weather service. “Don’t leave them in the hot car; make sure they have access to water too if they’re going to be outside.”

Deschutes County will continue to update shelter information on its extreme weather operations page.