Record heat is coming. Here’s how to stay cool.

The National Weather Service has issued an excessive heat warning for much of the coming week, with temperatures predicted to peak Thursday in the triple digits along much of Western Washington.

Tacoma could crest 100 degrees. Olympia could see 102 degrees, said National Weather Service meteorologist Gary Schneider. Seattle-Tacoma International Airport could see 99 degrees. Such temperatures would shatter records around the Puget Sound, he said.

Those looking to escape what is extreme heat for this part of the country should look to water, Schneider said.

Though areas along the Pacific Coast could see temperatures in the 90s, “of course right on the beach it will be cooler because you still have 50-degree water out there,” Schneider said. Even areas along the shore of Puget Sound should be a few degrees cooler.

Metro Parks Tacoma has 10 spraygrounds throughout Tacoma, which will be open from 10 a.m. through 8 p.m.

All eight of Tacoma Public Library’s branches have air conditioning. Most are open from 10 a.m. through 6 p.m. Thursday, with the main branch opening at 9 a.m. on what is predicted to be the hottest day.

Those living in the county can also visit air-conditioned libraries in the Pierce County system.

Fircrest, between University Place and Tacoma, is opening a cooling center from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Friday at Roy. H. Murphy Community Center, 555 Contra Costa Ave.

Many area restaurants and businesses also have air conditioning.

Don’t forget to drink plenty of fluids, especially water, the Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department says. With temperatures this high, people can suffer from heat-related illnesses. Be aware of symptoms that include headache, fatigue, muscle cramps, vomiting or fainting.

The National Weather Service said the unusually hot weather is forecast to begin Tuesday and continue through Friday.

This story was originally published July 31, 2017 at 6:49 PM with the headline "Record heat is coming. Here’s how to stay cool.."