Alexandria residents are being encouraged by city officials to prepare immediately for several days of extreme heat starting this Sunday (June 22), as the National Weather Service predicts temperatures that could feel as high as 107 degrees.
City officials have activated emergency cooling resources and issued comprehensive safety guidelines in response to the dangerous weather this weekend.
The extreme heat poses serious health risks, particularly for older adults, children, and individuals with pre-existing medical conditions or those without access to air conditioning.
City Mobilizes Cooling Resources
Alexandria has opened multiple cooling centers throughout the city. Recreation centers will serve as primary refuges, providing residents with air-conditioned spaces during the most dangerous hours. All Alexandria Libraries are also open as cooling centers during normal operating hours. For specific cooling center locations and hours, visit the City’s Seasonal and Emergency Warming & Cooling Options webpage.
For residents needing home assistance, the city’s Senior Cool Care program is ready to help. Those in need can call 703-746-5999 to request portable cooling devices.
The Alexandria Transit Company (DASH) continues normal operations but is prepared to deploy buses as mobile cooling centers if conditions worsen.
Critical Safety Measures
Health officials emphasize the importance of staying hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids, especially water, even when not feeling thirsty. Avoid alcoholic and caffeinated beverages, which can contribute to dehydration.
The key strategy is to stay indoors in air-conditioned buildings as much as possible. Residents without home air conditioning should visit public spaces like shopping malls, libraries, or cooling centers.
Those who must go outside should avoid strenuous activities, wear lightweight and light-colored clothing, and take frequent breaks in shaded or air-conditioned environments.
Community Care Essential
City officials are urging residents to check on family, friends, and neighbors who are more susceptible to heat-related illnesses. Pet owners must ensure their animals stay cool and hydrated. Officials warn: never leave pets in parked cars, where temperatures can quickly become life-threatening.
Recognizing Heat Emergencies
Residents should watch for symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke, including heavy sweating, weakness, dizziness, and nausea. Severe cases can cause high body temperature or unconsciousness. If symptoms of heat stroke occur, immediately call 911.
Staying Informed
With this weekend’s extreme heat event predicted to last multiple days, Alexandria’s cooling center network, emergency services, and community support systems are aligned to protect residents from this potentially deadly weather pattern.
Emergency Resources
- Cooling Centers: City recreation centers and libraries during normal hours.
- Portable Cooling Devices: Call 703-746-5999 (Senior Cool Care program).
- Mobile Cooling: DASH buses are available if needed.
- Weather Alerts: Sign up at alexandriava.gov/eNews.
- Heat Safety Info: ready.gov/heat.
- Emergency: Call 911 for heat stroke symptoms.
