Walter Kelley: This could be the hottest week in 8 years -- Excessive Heat Warning issued



SEATTLE -- An Excessive Heat Warning is set to go into effect for much of Western Washington this week.

The warning begins 2 p.m. Tuesday and remains in effect until 9 p.m. Friday.

Q13 News Chief Meteorologist Walter Kelley says the work week could be the hottest week the region has seen in the past eight years.

"Thursday through Saturday, morning the lows will be near 72 degrees," Kelley said. "Highs Tuesday through Saturday will be above 85 and many will top 100 along the foothills and South Sound. Even the beach and San Juans will be in the 80s -- and that is rare.

"The hottest day for all will be Thursday and that would be the day that we see some 100-degree readings."



Over the weekend we stay hot -- but closer to 90 rather than 100, Kelley said.

"Next week looks quite warm but closer to the mid-80s. Still no rain in sight, so we should set the record for the 'longest dry stretch' in Seattle history on Aug. 8," Kelley said.

RELATED: Winds are pushing smoke from British Columbia wildfires into northern Washington



"The hot temperatures will create a dangerous situation in which heat illnesses are possible," the National Weather Service states.

"Drink plenty of fluids, stay out of the sun, and check up on relatives and neighbors. Young children and pets should never be left unattended in vehicles under any circumstances. This is especially true during warm or hot weather when car interiors can reach lethal temperatures in a matter of minutes."



Record-breaking heat

The National Weather Service says the hottest day in Seattle since the 1890s was 103 degrees on July 29, 2009.