Interviews: Wildfire + Extreme Heat Health Risks With Dr. Toledo - 07/20/26
PORTLAND, Ore. (July 20, 2026) ~ Oregon is seeing some of its most active wildfire conditions of the summer after lightning sparked dozens of fires across Central Oregon, prompting evacuations and sending smoke into parts of the state. At the same time, Portland is entering a stretch of hot weather with temperatures expected to climb into the 90s, creating a one-two punch of wildfire smoke and extreme heat that can pose serious health risks, especially for children, older adults, pregnant people, and those with heart or lung conditions.
As smoke and heat intensify, Kaiser Permanente Northwest is offering interviews with Dr. Anne Toledo, family physician and former chief of urgent care, to discuss how Oregonians can protect themselves and their families. Smoke exposure can irritate the lungs, worsen asthma and other respiratory conditions, and increase cardiovascular stress. Extreme heat can compound those impacts by increasing dehydration, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke risk.
"Wildfire smoke and extreme heat can each affect our health, but together they can be especially challenging for vulnerable people," said Dr. Toledo. "The best approach is to prepare early, pay close attention to air quality and temperature forecasts, and take steps to limit exposure before symptoms develop."
Interviews available:
Dr. Anne Toledo, family physician and former chief of urgent care for Kaiser Permanente Northwest, is available for interviews via Zoom on Tuesday, July 21 from 10-10:30 a.m. or 3:30-4:30 p.m. Contact Karen Vitt to schedule.
Dr. Toledo is prepared to discuss:
- How wildfire smoke affects the lungs, heart, and overall health
- Who is most vulnerable to smoke-related illness and heat-related illness
- Warning signs that smoke exposure or heat stress may require medical attention
- How to create cleaner indoor air at home during smoky conditions
- The role of N95 masks and other protective measures when outdoor air quality is poor
- How heat can worsen the health impacts of wildfire smoke
- Ways to stay active and safe when air quality is unhealthy and temperatures are high
- Tips for protecting children, older adults, outdoor workers, and people with asthma, COPD, or heart disease
- When to seek urgent or emergency care for breathing difficulties, heat exhaustion, or heat stroke
- Practical steps families can take now to prepare for wildfire season and extreme heat events
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