Heat Advisory In VA Calls For 107 Degrees On Heat Index

NORTHERN VIRGINIA — With temperatures expected to feel like 107 degrees Wednesday, the National Weather Service has issued a heat advisory for the Washington area. The advisory is in effect from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Temperatures are expected to feel like 100 degrees at noon and climb until about 3 p.m., topping out around 96 degrees but feeling like 107 degrees in Northern Virginia and the Fredericksburg area, according to the National Weather Service.

A heat advisory means that heat and high humidity will combine to create a situation in which heat-related illnesses could occur.

To avoid becoming ill, people should reschedule strenuous activities to the early morning or evening; drink water; and wear loose, light-fitting clothing. Those working outside should take frequent breaks in shade or air-conditioning. Never leave children or pets alone in vehicles during a heat advisory, officials warn.

The heat advisory covers Prince William, Loudoun, Fairfax, Arlington, Stafford, Spotsylvania counties, along with the city of Alexandria, Manassas and Fredericksburg. In some areas, the heat index may hit 109 degrees, officials advised.

Those who need to go to cooling centers should wear face coverings and wash hands frequently while there. Children under 2 years old and people who are having trouble breathing, unconscious or unable to remove the mask themselves should not wear a mask, according to authorities.

Here are the projected temperatures and what they will feel like Wednesday in Northern Virginia, according to forecasters:

In the afternoon and evening Wednesday, thunderstorms may roll through the region with powerful wind gusts and heavy rain that could lead to isolated instances of flash flooding. Rain is increasingly likely after 5 p.m., according to the forecast.

The National Weather Service also issued a hazardous weather outlook for the region Thursday due to the possibility of heat indices above 105 degrees and scattered thunderstorms with potentially damaging winds.

How To Stay Safe In The Heat

Heat stroke, the most serious heat-related illness, can be fatal if not treated immediately.

It occurs when the body's temperature rises rapidly and the sweating mechanism fails, leading to overheating without a way to cool down.

Symptoms include confusion; slurred speech; seizures; hot, dry skin or extreme sweating; altered mental status; very high body temperature; and loss of consciousness/coma. If someone exhibits signs of heat-related illness, move the person to a cool, shaded area and call 911.

Here are several ways to stay safe during the heat advisory period:

• Lighten up. Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing. Light colors reflect away some of the sun's energy. It is also a good idea to wear hats or to use an umbrella.
• Drink water. Carry water or juice with you and drink continuously even if you don't feel thirsty. Avoid alcohol and caffeine, which dehydrate the body. Avoid salt tablets unless directed by a physician.
• Eat small meals and eat more often. Avoid high-protein foods, which increase metabolic heat.
• Slow down. Avoid strenuous activity. If you must do strenuous activity, do it during the coolest part of the day, which is usually in the morning between 4 and 7 a.m.
• Stay inside. If air-conditioning is not available, go to the lowest floor out of the sunshine. Remember that electric fans do not cool; they simply circulate the air.
• Be a good neighbor. During heat waves, check in on elderly residents in your neighborhood and those who do not have air conditioning.