VA, DC Weather: Excessive Heat Warning In Effect, With Record Possible

VIRGINIA/DC — An excessive heat warning is in effect across a large part of Northern Virginia and Washington, D.C. on both Friday and Saturday, with index values up to 111 degrees expected, according to the National Weather Service.

The Friday excessive heating warning is in effect from noon until 8 p.m., while the Saturday warning will be in effect from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.

"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.

High temperatures are expected to reach the upper 90s to around 100, which is the record high temperature for the day at Reagan National Airport. The record high for July 28 at Washington Dulles Airport is 99 degrees.

Temperatures will be extremely high on Saturday, too, but are not expected to hit record highs. The record high at Reagan National Airport for July 29 is 104 degrees, and Washington Dulles Airport's record high is 103 degrees. Both of those records were set in 2011.

Arlington, Fairfax, Prince William, Stafford counties, along with the Cities of Alexandria and Fredericksburg, are included in the excessive heat warning. To the west, Loudoun and Fauquier counties are under a heat advisory for Friday.

By about 8 p.m. on Friday, the heat index will finally drop below 100 degrees in the D.C. area, according to forecasts.

In its hazardous weather outlook, the NWS said that isolated severe thunderstorms producing damaging winds are possible Friday afternoon. On Saturday afternoon, chances for severe thunderstorms are greater as a cool front moves into the area.

Storms on Saturday will bring an end to the heat wave, with highs on Sunday expected in the mid-80s, followed by cooler and less humid air early next week.

For Friday and Saturday, residents are urged to drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air-conditioned room and stay out of the sun. Young children and pets should not be left unattended in vehicles under any circumstances.

For workers, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration recommends scheduling frequent rest breaks in shaded or air-conditioned environments.

Fairfax County has activated its heat plan. Cooling centers across the county will be available during normal operating hours for people needing relief from the heat. The centers will also have supplies available, including bottled water, sunscreen, insect repellant, and body wipes.

Arlington County is offering shelters and resources during the heat wave. Financial assistance with air conditioning repairs are available by calling 703-228-1350. Alexandria residents without access to cooling in their homes or a place to cool off can find various options around the city. Cooling centers are designated at recreation centers and library branches.

The District of Columbia has activated its hot weather emergency plan through Sunday.

Here is a look at the National Weather Service forecast for the weekend and early next week for Northern Virginia and D.C.:

Friday: Scattered showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 5 p.m. Mostly sunny and hot, with a high near 99. Heat index values as high as 109.

Friday night: Scattered showers and thunderstorms, mainly before 11 p.m. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 76.

Saturday: Showers and thunderstorms likely after 2 p.m. Mostly sunny and hot, with a high near 97. Heat index values as high as 105.

Saturday night: Showers and thunderstorms likely, mainly before 8 p.m. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 72.

Sunday: A slight chance of showers and thunderstorms before 8 a.m., then a slight chance of showers between 8 a.m. and 2 p.m., then a slight chance of showers and thunderstorms after 2 p.m. Mostly sunny, with a high near 86.

Sunday night: Partly cloudy, with a low around 67.

Monday: Sunny, with a high near 85.

Monday night: Mostly clear, with a low around 65.

Tuesday: Sunny, with a high near 84.