Expected record high weekend temperatures in Willamette Valley come with safety concerns
After a rainy week, the weather is expected to drastically change heading into the weekend. The National Weather Service expects the Willamette Valley to see the hottest days of the year so far and potentially break records.
However, the hot temperatures come with danger, as early season water temperatures remain very cold and can often lead to drownings or other incidents.
"That usually means many folks tend to take a plunge, but be prepared," said Ashley Massey, public information officer with Oregon State Marine Board.
What to expect
High temperatures are expected to come in quickly, reaching 84 degrees by Thursday. Friday is expected to be the hottest day with temperatures reaching close to 90 degrees in the Portland area and 85 to 89 degrees from Salem to Eugene.
On Saturday, similar temperatures are expected ranging from 85 to 90 degrees. Portland will likely experience the top end of the range. Then it will cool down to the upper 70s on Sunday.
In terms of breaking records, Thursday is unlikely but temperatures on Friday and Saturday could break records.
The most recent records for the Portland and Salem areas for May 10 came back in 2019. Portland hit a high of 89 degrees that year, while this year it could reach 91. In Salem, the record high for May 10 is 87 degrees, which is also likely to be in play.
Warm air, cold water and swift currents
The sudden and unseasonably warm weather brings a variety of water safety concerns. The National Weather Service's main concern is with cold water safety.
“It is the first dry and hot weekend ahead, and Mother’s Day weekend, so there will be a decent amount of people who are brave enough to jump into the river," said Tyler Kranz, a National Weather Service meteorologist. "Even though there are no flooding warnings, there will be swift currents and frigid temperatures."
National Weather Service officials suggest staying out of river and lakes this weekend to stay safe. Even strong swimmers face risks of strong currents and being too cold to stay afloat.
In order to stay safe in cold water temperatures and swift currents, those heading to the water this weekend should use life jackets and check water level conditions. Bodies of water may be filled with debris from the winter causing obstructions.
Oregon State Marine Board officials urge water users to be prepared with life jackets whether you are on a boat or even near water.
“If folks hit the water, we do recommend they wear life jackets even on the banks because they are so unstable right now,” Massey said.
For updated information on water levels or to report obstructions, go to bit.ly/4bmeKl6
Emma Logan is an outdoors journalism intern for the Statesman Journal. She can be reached at elogan@salem.gannett.com or on X @emmmalogan
This article originally appeared on Salem Statesman Journal: Warm weekend weather in Willamette Valley brings water safety concerns
