Hood to Coast kicks off Friday in what could be the hottest year on record for the 43-year-old race, known as "The Mother of All Relays."

The nearly 200-mile relay runs from Timberline Lodge on Mount Hood to Seaside Beach on the Oregon Coast, passing through Portland, Scappoose and Astoria. There is also a Portland to Coast walking relay.

Temperatures in Portland are forecast to reach between 98 and 101 degrees Friday and Saturday. The record high for this weekend is 102, according to KGW meteorologist Rod Hill. That means thousands of runners and walkers could face near-record heat during the event.

Multnomah County officials told KGW the health department is concerned about the heat wave and has been in contact with race organizers.

When asked whether the county might shut down th

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