National Weather Service Issues Heat Advisory for Northern Virginia

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National Weather Service map issued at 6 a.m. Tuesday; area in orange is under a Heat Advisory Tuesday from 1-7 p.m.

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By MARY ANN BARTON (Patch Staff)

The National Weather Service has issued a Heat Advisory for most of Northern Virginia Tuesday.

The Advisory area includes the District of Columbia, Arlington County, City of Alexandria, City of Falls Church and Fairfax County.

The Heat Advisory goes into effect Tuesday at 1 p.m. and continues until 7 p.m. Heat index values will rise to 105 degrees, the weather service says.

There is a risk of heat-related illness for those without air-conditioning or those outdoors for an extended period, the NWS warns.

A Heat Advisory means that a period of high temperatures is expected. The combination of high temperatures and high humidity will create a situation in which heat illnesses are possible, according to the National Weather Service.

How can you prepare?

• You should 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.
• Drink plenty of water.
• 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 911.

Heatstroke symptoms, according to the Mayo Clinic, include:

1. • High body temperature. A body temperature of 104 F (40 C) or higher is the main sign of heatstroke.
   • Altered mental state or behavior. ...
   • Alteration in sweating. ...
   • Nausea and vomiting. ...
   • Flushed skin. ...
   • Rapid breathing. ...
   • Racing heart rate. ...
   • Headache.

The Weather Channel hour by hour forecast for Tuesday for Northern Virginia calls for scattered strong storms between 5-7 p.m.

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