Hermiston-area residents should brace themselves for a record-breaking June heat wave next week, as temperatures are forecast to stay in triple digits for more than a week.

Friday, June 25, is expected to see highs of 101 degrees in Hermiston, peaking at about 113 degrees on Monday, June 28, before eventually dipping back down below 100 degrees on Sunday, July 4.

According to the National Weather Service, the highest temperature ever recorded in Hermiston was 113 degrees, in 1961. The highest June temperature previously recorded was 111 degrees.

Air conditioning units can struggle to keep up during the heat, as can electric utilities, so Energy Trust Of Oregon recommends people do what they can to reduce the strain.

Their tips include:

• Unplug devices that suck up electricity and generate heat when they’re not in use, and avoid using appliances like dishwashers or ovens as much as possible.
• Turn off lights when not in use and swap out traditional light bulbs for LED ones that use less energy and generate less heat.
• Close your blinds and curtains when the sun is shining into that side of your home.
• Open your windows in the evening and morning when it is cooler outside, and use a fan to move cool air inside.
• Seal up cracks around windows, doors and other openings that are letting cool air escape.
• Check your filters on your HVAC system or window unit and clean them if they’re dirty. Also look for nests and other things that may be blocking airflow.
• Turn your thermostat up a few degrees when you’re not home so your air conditioning isn’t working so hard to cool an empty house.

Health experts are also warning that heat waves can be dangerous to humans and animals.

According to the Mayo Clinic, a person is experiencing heatstroke and needs immediate medical attention when their body temperature reaches 104 degrees. Signs can include altered mental status, such as confusion or dizziness, nausea or vomiting, rapid heartbeat, rapid breathing and flushed skin that is hot and dry to the touch.

If someone is experiencing heat stroke, call 911 and in the meantime work to cool them down by whatever means possible, including bringing them indoors, removing clothing, dousing them with cool water, putting ice under their armpits or covering them with a wet towel.

The Mayo Clinic recommends that in excessive temperatures, people keep themselves cool in the following ways:

• Avoid strenuous activities, or exercise during cooler hours.
• Stay hydrated with plenty water.
• Avoid alcohol, which can interfere with your body’s ability to regulate temperature.
• Dress for the heat with loose-fitting, lightweight clothing.
• Protect against sunburn by applying sunscreen generously every two hours outdoors and wearing a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses.
• Never leave anyone in a parked car, even for a few minutes in the shade. Also lock vehicles and other places where children might crawl inside and get overheated.

Reporter Bryce Dole contributed to this story.