 KATU-TV meteorologist Rhonda Shelby. It could take weeks to months to confirm if the deaths were in fact heat-related. No word yet on whether the men who died were homeless or living without air conditioning. Health officials say it's critical to check on family members or neighbors who are at risk during the heat wave. Tim Hull, Northwest News Radio. And soaring temperatures here in Washington created a road hazard in Skagit County. One problem spot popped up along State Route 11, just outside of Burlington.