 The homeless and seniors are among those at risk as searing heat blankets the western part of the nation and is expected to last for days. CBS's Elise Preston. In Portland, Oregon, where the city has declared a state of emergency, groups are handing out free fans and opening up cooling centers to those most vulnerable. I don't do well with the heat with some of my health issues. It's good to be in a nice, friendly environment that's comfortable.