Published July 31 2017
Bellevue residents experienced high temperatures and haze from wildfire smoke in early August. This account includes updates posted July 31 through Aug. 4.
Aug. 4
Air quality in much of the Puget Sound area is expected to remain unhealthy through Sunday, Aug. 6. The burn ban and health advisory for vulnerable populations remain in effect.
While the wildfire haze kept the heat down, the National Weather Service's excessive heat warning remains in effect until 9 p.m., Friday. Highs Friday in the upper 80s to lower 90s.
Aug. 2
The Puget Sound Clean Air Agency declared the air quality in the area unhealthy due to wildfire smoke from British Columbia. The smoke is expected to remain in the region through at least Friday.
Children, pregnant women, older adults and those with heart and breathing problems should avoid physical exertion outdoors due to the poor air quality. People in these groups should stay indoors and keep indoor air as clean as possible. Keep windows and doors closed and run an air conditioner, if possible.
The Puget Sound Clean Air Agency has issued its first-ever summertime air quality burn ban. Residents are not allowed to use charcoal barbecues, campfires/bonfires, fire pits, chimneys, fire bowls or similar free-standing devices.
Aug. 1
From the National Weather Services: record breaking high temperatures coming up with excessive heat warning beginning at 2 p.m. today for portions of the area.
July 31
The National Weather Service in Seattle has issued an excessive heat warning for western Washington this week, with the mercury expected to reach 97 degrees in Bellevue Thursday, Aug. 3, and Friday, Aug. 4.
Very high temperatures can cause health problems, especially for the very young, very old and people with certain medical conditions.
Anyone who will be outside for extended periods should drink plenty of water, seek shade whenever possible, use sunscreen with a high SPF and be alert to signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke.
If you're inside without air conditioning, you also may want to seek an alternative, such as a mall, movie theater, restaurant or library.
Our community centers are available to the public for cooling during the following hours:
- North Bellevue Community Center: 8:30 a.m.-9 p.m., Monday-Thursday; 8:30 a.m.-6 p.m., Friday; and 8 a.m.-noon, Saturday.
- South Bellevue Community Center: 6 a.m.-9 p.m., Monday-Thursday, and 6 a.m.-8 p.m., Friday.
- Highland Community Center: 9 a.m.-6 p.m., Monday-Friday.
- Crossroads Community Center: 9 a.m.-7:45 p.m., Monday-Friday.
Tips for Dealing with Excessive Heat
- Watch for signs of heat exhaustion or heat stroke in yourself and others. Call 911 immediately if you know someone who experiences symptoms.
- Do not leave children or people with mobility challenges in a parked car, even with the windows down. Call 911 immediately if you see unattended children in parked cars.
- King County animal control officers will respond to calls about animals in distress due to the heat. Call 911 or 206-296-7387 for assistance.
- Drink plenty of water. Avoid dehydration, which can occur when relying on drinks with caffeine or high sugar levels. Also avoid alcohol.
- Rivers and lakes are still cold, even though it’s hot outside. That can sap even strong swimmers’ strength in a matter of minutes. Wear a personal flotation device and avoid alcohol. King County has details about water safety.
Public Health – Seattle & King County has more hot weather tips.