Summer heat, fire threat peaks again Tuesday around the PNW

PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) -- A KOIN 6 Weather Alert is in place again Tuesday as temperatures approach the triple-digits and the fire threat increases.

Temperatures along the Willamette Valley aren't expected to break any records Tuesday. Afternoon highs will climb into the upper-90s and possibly touch 100 for some. The increase in heat will also help the development of afternoon storms east of the Cascades. It's the threat of lightning with hot and dry conditions that will increase the wildfire potential for Central Oregon.

Air quality may decrease Tuesday evening across the Pacific Northwest as smoke from southern fires moves northward. Skies will likely be hazy as temperatures warm into the upper 90s.

The threat of thunderstorms with very little rain will increase the potential for wildfires to start and spread rapidly. Most of the state of Oregon has fallen back into abnormally dry conditions if not even under a moderate drought due to the lack of rain. Low humidity values and hot temperatures have also helped to increase the drought and wildfire threat.

Temperatures will cool slightly come the middle of the week around Portland. That's where afternoon highs will return to the low 90s. The sunny and dry stretch of weather will take the Pacific Northwest through the Pride festivities this weekend in Portland.