The hottest stretch of the year so far has arrived in Alexandria.
The National Weather Service has issued a Heat Advisory from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Wednesday and Extreme Heat Watch from Thursday morning through Friday evening. Under the Heat Advisory, the real-feel heat index values could reach 106 degrees. The heat index, a combination of high temperatures and humidity, could climb as high as 112 during the Extreme Heat Watch.
Capital Weather forecasters expect temperatures to approach 100 degrees Wednesday and range from 100 to 105 degrees Thursday and Friday. The D.C. record high temperatures for July 2 and 3 are 106.
The city’s recreation centers and libraries serve as cooling centers, but residents should be aware of Independence Day closures on July 3 and 4.
More from the National Weather Service:
Extreme Heat Watch issued June 30 at 3:03AM EDT by NWS Baltimore MD/Washington DC
EXTREME HEAT WATCH IN EFFECT FROM 11 A.M. THURSDAY TO 8 P.M. EDT FRIDAY.
* WHAT…For the Heat Advisory, heat index values up to 106 expected. For the Extreme Heat Watch, dangerously hot conditions with heat index values up to 112 possible.
* WHERE…DC and portions of central, north central, northeast, northern, and southern Maryland, and central, northern, and northwest Virginia.
* WHEN…For the Heat Advisory, from 11 AM to 8 PM EDT Wednesday. For the Extreme Heat Watch, from Thursday morning through Friday evening.
* IMPACTS…Heat related illnesses increase significantly during extreme heat and high humidity events. Hot temperatures and high humidity may cause heat illnesses.
Drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air-conditioned room, stay out of the sun, and check up on relatives and neighbors.
Take extra precautions when outside. Wear lightweight and loose fitting clothing. Try to limit strenuous activities to early morning or evening. Take action when you see symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke.
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.
