Beating the Heat: How Food Carts and Outdoor Eateries Adapt to Extreme Temperatures

As the Pacific Northwest grapples with a relentless heat wave, the operators of food carts and outdoor eateries in Portland, Oregon, are facing unique challenges to keep their businesses running and their employees safe. From innovative cooling strategies to adjusting hours of operation, these resilient entrepreneurs are finding ways to weather the storm and continue serving their communities.

Keeping Cool in the Face of Scorching Temperatures

Battling the Blazing Interiors

The heat wave has taken a significant toll on the working conditions inside food carts and outdoor eateries. Jen Soutavong, the owner of White Elephant Asian Fusion on Mississippi Avenue, reports that the temperature inside her establishment can be up to 25 degrees hotter than the outside air. "It's about 20 to 25 degrees hotter inside than it is outside," she told FOX 12. To combat the sweltering conditions, Soutavong has resorted to creative measures, such as keeping a cold towel around her neck and using fans to circulate the air. However, she acknowledges that the heat is simply too much to bear for extended periods, leading her to limit her hours of operation.

Overcoming Power Challenges

Another obstacle faced by these businesses is the strain on their electrical systems. Many food carts and outdoor eateries are unable to utilize full air conditioning due to the risk of power shortages. "It causes the power to short-circuit," Soutavong explained. This limitation forces them to find alternative ways to keep their establishments cool, further adding to the challenges they must overcome.

Prioritizing Employee Safety

The safety and well-being of their employees are of paramount concern for the operators of these businesses. Matt's BBQ, a food cart located in the same pod as White Elephant, has opted to close down completely until the heat wave subsides on Wednesday, prioritizing the protection of their staff. Similarly, Patrick Sheils, the manager of 'Prost!' next door, has had to send home a few employees who were struggling with the extreme temperatures. "We did have a couple of employees who did have some issues with the heat and we did send them home, just to make sure we're taking care of each other and they're taking care of themselves," Sheils said.

Adapting Operating Hours

To mitigate the impact of the heat, many food carts and outdoor eateries have adjusted their hours of operation. Soutavong, for instance, has limited her business to early lunch and late dinner, avoiding the peak of the day's heat. This strategy allows her to protect her employees and ensure they can work in more comfortable conditions, even if it means sacrificing some revenue during the hottest hours.

Seeking Respite in Neighboring Establishments

The heat wave has also led to a sense of community among the businesses in the area. Sheils noted that many of the food cart employees have been seeking refuge in the air-conditioned 'Prost!' to take breaks and cool down. This collaborative spirit helps these small businesses support one another and ensure their employees can find relief from the oppressive temperatures.

Weathering the Storm: A New Normal?

As the heat wave continues, the operators of these food carts and outdoor eateries are grappling with the reality that extreme weather events may become more frequent. Sheils acknowledges that this could be "the new norm" and that businesses will need to work together to adapt and overcome the challenges posed by rising temperatures. "This is going to become the new norm, I just feel like it's going to become hotter every year. It's something that we all have to work together with," he said.

Calling for Community Support

Despite the difficulties they face, these small business owners remain committed to serving their communities. Soutavong emphasizes the importance of local support during these challenging times. "So please go support your local businesses, especially your food carts, because they're going to need it," she urged. By rallying behind these resilient entrepreneurs, the community can help ensure that their beloved food carts and outdoor eateries can weather the storm and continue to thrive.