Oregon records at least 10 deaths possibly linked to extreme heat

PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) – Oregon has recorded at least 10 deaths possibly linked to the latest heat wave that ramped up to triple-digit temperatures over the weekend, officials say.

Most of the deaths have occurred in Multnomah County, where a sixth death was announced within its borders on Wednesday. Deaths have also been recorded in Coos County and Washington County, Klamath County, and Jackson County.

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The dates, ages, sexes, and locations of those who died are as follows:

The identities of all victims have yet to be released. State medical examiners will provide more information as it becomes available – likely in several weeks or months.

“Further tests and investigation will determine whether the deaths are officially hot-weather-related. In some cases, the deaths may be found to have had other causes,” officials said.

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The state medical examiner has not yet revealed whether there were any commonalities between these deaths, meaning it is unclear if they were unhoused or living alone without air conditioning.

Several people have also headed to the Emergency Room, where dozens of people came in with heat related problems.

The state keeps track of heat-related ER visits. Since July 4 – right before the heat wave began – roughly 5,500 visits statewide jumped up over the next few days. The peak took place on Monday, July 8 with 7,900.

Stay with KOIN 6 News as this story develops.

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