The heat and humidity that have baked the D.C. area through much of July so far are reaching dangerous levels.
The National Weather Service issued an Excessive Heat Warning for the region, including Fairfax County, shortly after 2 p.m. today (Tuesday). Scheduled to stay in effect until 8 p.m., the notice warns that heat index values — which measures air temperatures combined with humidity — could reach up to 110.
“Extreme heat and humidity will significantly increase the potential for heat related illnesses, particularly for those working or participating in outdoor activities,” the NWS said, describing conditions as “dangerously hot.”
With 2 PM observations showing a number of locations along I-95 and points eastward with heat index values at/above 110 degrees, these locations have been upgraded to Excessive Heat Warnings. See the updated graphic for the latest products! #MDwx #DCwx #VAwx #WVwx pic.twitter.com/ngPiunIyhH
— NWS Baltimore-Washington (@NWS_BaltWash) July 9, 2024
An Excessive Heat Warning generally means that the maximum heat index temperature is expected to hit 105 degrees or higher within the next 12 hours, and night will offer little relief with temperatures staying at 75 degrees or above.
Fairfax County Public Schools has canceled all outdoor activities on its fields and courts until 8 p.m. Fairfax County’s heat plan is in effect, allowing residents to utilize libraries, community centers and other sites as cooling centers where they can find supplies like water and sunscreen.
The county has already announced that it will activate its heat plan again tomorrow (Wednesday), since the NWS has issued a Heat Advisory for noon to 8 p.m. The heat index is projected to climb up to 107 degrees.
However, a break in the ongoing heat wave, which has raised the risk of a drought, may be in sight. The NWS is currently forecasting a 60% chance of storms Thursday night, bringing temperatures down into the 80s on Friday (July 12).
The full alert from the NWS is below.
…EXCESSIVE HEAT WARNING IN EFFECT UNTIL 8 PM EDT THIS EVENING…
…HEAT ADVISORY REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM NOON TO 8 PM EDT WEDNESDAY…* WHAT…For the Excessive Heat Warning, dangerously hot conditions with heat index values up to 110. For the Heat Advisory, heat index values up to 107 expected.
* WHERE…Portions of central and southern Maryland, The District of Columbia and northern Virginia.
* WHEN…For the Excessive Heat Warning, until 8 PM EDT this evening. For the Heat Advisory, from noon to 8 PM EDT Wednesday.
* IMPACTS…Extreme heat and humidity will significantly increase the potential for heat related illnesses, particularly for those working or participating in outdoor activities.
* ADDITIONAL DETAILS…Very warm and humid conditions will persist into the overnight hours. Ensure to stay hydrated and find ways to stay cool.
PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…
Drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air-conditioned room, stay out of the sun, and check up on relatives and neighbors. Young children and pets should never be left unattended in vehicles under any circumstances.
Take extra precautions if you work or spend time outside. When possible reschedule strenuous activities to early morning or evening. Know the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Wear lightweight and loose fitting clothing when possible. To reduce risk during outdoor work, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration recommends scheduling frequent rest breaks in shaded or air conditioned environments. Anyone overcome by heat should be moved to a cool and shaded location. Heat stroke is an emergency! Call 9 1 1.
