From the Archives: Multnomah County Medical Examiner identifies two additional deaths suspected as connected to prolonged July 2022 heatwave – bringing total to seven

August 1, 2022

For Immediate Release

Media Contact: Denis Theriault, denis.theriault@multco.us, 510-875-8546

The Multnomah County Medical Examiner’s Program on Monday, Aug. 1, reported it is investigating two additional deaths suspected to be associated with the July 2022 heatwave, bringing the total number of suspected hyperthermia deaths to seven.

The July 2022 heatwave that ended Sunday, July 31, marks the longest stretch of extreme heat ever recorded in the Portland area – with temperatures reaching or exceeding 95 degrees for a record-setting seven consecutive days. 

The sixth and seventh individuals died Sunday, July 31. All seven individuals died in Portland.

The first death occurred in Portland on July 25. A second person died July 27, and the third died July 28. Two additional deaths occurred July 31. No other details are available for release at this time.

These are preliminary suspected cases and are under investigation as potential heat-related deaths. Further tests and investigation will determine whether they are officially heat-related. The County will update this information as it becomes available.

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