Portland is slogging through a hot, smoky midweek stretch on Wednesday, July 22, 2026, with mostly sunny skies, patchy smoke building after 11 a.m., and afternoon highs near 99°F. Heat index values could push up to 106°F, and a Heat Advisory is in effect for the Portland metro through 11 p.m. The worst of the heat is expected this afternoon and early evening, before slightly cooler, more marine-influenced air starts to move in by Thursday. If you have to be outside, it is a day to shift hard work to morning or evening and keep the water bottle close.
Afternoon Heat and Smoke
The National Weather Service has a Heat Advisory posted through 11 p.m. Wednesday and notes that inland valleys could climb into the upper 90s, with heat index readings near 106°F. Patchy smoke is expected to drift into the metro after mid-morning, at times reducing visibility and making the air feel even more oppressive. Overnight temperatures are expected to stay fairly warm in some neighborhoods, which means limited cooling for homes that rely on nighttime relief. For the full forecast and current hazards, see NWS Portland.
Evening Shower Chance
Monsoonal moisture could kick up isolated showers or thunderstorms from the afternoon into the evening, mainly over higher terrain, although a few cells could wander close to town. Lightning, brief heavy downpours, and gusty, erratic winds are the main concerns, so anyone at an outdoor event should have a quick route to shelter. Storm coverage should drop off after sunset as instability fades and onshore flow strengthens. If you hear thunder, head indoors and stay out of the water until the storm has moved on.
Where To Cool Off
Multnomah County is running cooling centers and listing dozens of cool spaces across the county, including sites such as Bud Clark Commons (650 N.W. Irving St.) along with several libraries and community centers. The county is also offering transportation help and urges people to call 2-1-1 to get connected with a cooling spot. TriMet will not turn away riders who are traveling to or from cooling centers while the heat event is active. For current locations and hours, see Multnomah County.
Plan Ahead
In the short term, the basics still matter: drink plenty of water, never leave children or pets in vehicles, and try to avoid heavy outdoor work during the afternoon peak. People who are older, have medical conditions, or lack air conditioning should check in with neighbors and consider spending the hottest part of the day in a public cooling space. If someone shows signs of heat illness, including dizziness, confusion, or fainting, call 911 right away. Keep an eye on local forecasts and air quality updates as smoke and storm chances shift through the day.
