Whatcom County is heading into a significant heat event this weekend, with the National Weather Service issuing a heat advisory for most of western Washington, including Whatcom and Skagit counties, running from 11 a.m. Sunday, June 14, through 5 a.m. Tuesday, June 16. Forecasters are predicting temperatures could reach the mid-80s on Sunday and Monday, potentially breaking records for those dates.
Whatcom County officials are urging residents to begin preparing now, before the heat arrives. The county's microclimate geography means some areas will feel significantly hotter than others. Locations further from the coast, including Maple Falls, Deming, Glacier, and Lynden, are expected to see the highest temperatures, while Bellingham's proximity to Bellingham Bay will provide some moderation. Even so, coastal readings in the upper 70s and low 80s are expected and can still pose health risks, particularly for vulnerable populations.
The Whatcom County Public Health department issued guidance Thursday with practical steps residents can take to protect themselves. Drinking plenty of water throughout the day is the first line of defense, with officials specifically advising people to avoid caffeine, alcohol, and sugary drinks, which can accelerate dehydration. Dressing in lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing and limiting outdoor activity during the hottest hours of the day, typically between noon and 6 p.m., can significantly reduce heat exposure.
For those without air conditioning, the county is encouraging people to spend the hottest part of the day in cooler public spaces such as libraries, shopping malls, or movie theaters. The City of Bellingham maintains a list of designated cooling center locations that activate when the National Weather Service HeatRisk category reaches red, which is classified as a major risk level. Residents can check the city's website or call 2-1-1 to locate cooling centers near them during the advisory period.
Outdoor workers, older adults, young children, and people with preexisting heart or lung conditions are at the greatest risk during heat events. County health officials also ask residents to check in on neighbors, particularly elderly individuals who may live alone and lack air conditioning. Simple measures like bringing in pets, checking on family members, and never leaving children or animals in parked vehicles can save lives during extreme heat.
The timing of this heat wave coincides with the opening of Artist Point on Mount Baker Highway, which may draw additional crowds to higher elevations this weekend. While temperatures at elevation will be lower, hikers should still carry more water than usual and watch for signs of heat exhaustion, including heavy sweating, dizziness, and muscle cramps.
County road crews and emergency management teams are monitoring conditions and will be ready to respond to heat-related incidents. Residents can stay updated on current advisories and county resources through the Whatcom County travel and conditions page.
The advisory runs through early Tuesday morning. Temperatures are expected to moderate by midweek as a marine push of cooler air works its way back in from the coast. Until then, plan ahead, stay hydrated, and keep an eye on those who may need extra help getting through the heat.
