The upcoming mayoral primary race in the city is facing a notable challenge due to an intense heatwave.

Temperatures are expected to reach a scorching high of around 100 degrees, which could break a record dating back nearly 140 years. Voters preparing for next week’s elections are being warned of an “extreme heatwave,” according to weather forecasts.

“This marks our first heatwave of the year,” stated Fox News Meteorologist Stephanie Van Oppen. “It will be a significant change in our usual weather pattern.”

The sudden surge in temperature follows a cooler, rainy June reminiscent of Seattle’s climate so far this month. The heat begins Thursday, with highs climbing into the upper 80s, Van Oppen added.

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The high temperatures are expected to persist through Sunday, with a three-day peak reaching 92°F, followed by consecutive days of 97°F on Monday and a potential 100°F on Tuesday — marking the hottest June temperature ever recorded in the city, breaking the 1888 record. Voters will be participating in a high-stakes mayoral primary amid this heat.

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“This will be a significant shift, and many people aren’t accustomed to such heat,” Van Oppen cautioned. “Enjoy the sun, but remember to take breaks and stay safe.” She added that cooler, rainy weather will return midweek.

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Overall, this June’s shift from cooler to hotter weather is expected to be more pronounced than usual. While not necessarily indicative of a prolonged summer of heat, projections suggest a higher likelihood of an above-average season overall.

“If you’ve been waiting for summer, this could be the start of that warm weather,” Van Oppen noted.