PHOTO ESSAY | Cooling Off Along Lake Washington

by Susan Fried

A snow-capped Mount Rainier loomed prominently as hundreds of people headed for Lake Washington in search of relief from the record-breaking heat in Seattle.

The lake was dotted with all kinds of watercraft and people floating on inflatables, and the beaches and docks were covered with people relaxing between swimming and diving into the lake to cool off from the scorching temperatures.

The heat wave over the Pacific Northwest is expected to continue through the week, with temperatures dropping to the mid-80s by Thursday.

The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a heat advisory for the Seattle area to remain in effect until 5 p.m. Wednesday, July 10. The forecast predicts temperatures in the mid- to upper 90s in Seattle, with overnight temperatures dropping to the mid-60s.

These temperatures pose a moderate to major risk of heat-related symptoms, and NWS advises people to drink plenty of fluids and to stay in air-conditioned rooms and out of the sun.

NWS warns that young children and pets should never be left unattended in closed cars. It's dangerous even in mild weather, but especially so during heat waves, when car interiors can reach dangerous temperatures in minutes.

People seeking relief from the heat can also visit libraries, community centers, and water parks during regular business hours. The Seattle Center Armory and Union Station are also available as cooling centers. More information on where to go to seek relief from the heat is available on the King County Regional Homelessness Authority website.

See the Emerald's South End Cool-Off Guide for more tips and information to cool off during the heat wave.

Featured Image: Dozens of people relax on the Arnold and Ema Park T-dock on Lake Washington on Monday, July 8. The temperature reached a record 93 degrees, resulting in hundreds of people descending on Lake Washington in search of relief from the heat. (Photo: Susan Fried)