More than 60 deaths thought to be heat-related
By Terry Murry on Wednesday, June 30th, 2021 in Columbia Basin News More Top Stories
PORTLAND – The Oregon State Police Medical Examiner’s Office has received reports of 63 deaths where the preliminary investigation suggests they could be heat related. The number, which was as of today (Wednesday) could change in either direction as more information is received from each county’s medical examiner.
Umatilla County reports one preliminary heat-related death as does Columbia County. Two are reported in Clackamas County, five in Washington County, and nine in Marion County. The largest number comes from Multnomah County with 45.
In spite of the fact that all heat-related deaths and illnesses are classified as preventable, every year an average of 658 people succumb to extreme heat. Those who are at the greatest risk for heat-related illnesses are infants and children up to age 4, people who are 65 and older, people who are overweight or have existing medical conditions, people who are socially isolated, and the poor, according to the Centers for Disease Control.
