Heat Index Up To 107 To Impact Alexandria: How To Prepare

ALEXANDRIA, VA — As several days of extreme heat are on the way to Alexandria, city officials are urging residents to find ways to keep cool.

The National Weather Service is expecting several days of extreme heat starting on Sunday. The heat index, or the real feel due to high temperatures and humidity, could get as high as 107 degrees.

The sweltering conditions pose a particular risk to older adults, children, those with medical conditions and those without air conditioning. City of Alexandria recreation centers and libraries will serve as cooling centers during operating hours. DASH Bus may deploy buses as mobile cooling centers as needed.

Here are the cooling center locations and hours on Sunday:

• Charles Houston Recreation Center - 901 Wythe Street, 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.
  Chinquapin Park Recreation Center & Aquatics Facility - 3210 King St, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
• Charles E. Beatley, Jr. Central Library - 5005 Duke Street, 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.
• Kate Waller Barrett Branch Library - 717 Queen Street, 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.
• Ellen Coolidge Burke Branch Library - 4701 Seminary Road, 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.
• James M. Duncan, Jr. Branch Library - 2501 Commonwealth Avenue, 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Residents can check back on the cooling center website for hours beyond Sunday.

The city has the following tips for staying safe in the extreme heat:

• Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids, especially water, even if you do not feel thirsty. Avoid alcoholic and caffeinated beverages, which can lead to dehydration.
• Stay Indoors: Remain in air-conditioned buildings as much as possible. If your home does not have air conditioning, visit public places such as shopping malls, libraries, or cooling centers.
• Limit Outdoor Activities: If you must be outside, avoid strenuous activities, wear lightweight and light-colored clothing, and take frequent breaks in shaded or air-conditioned environments.
• Check on Vulnerable Individuals: Ensure that family, friends, and neighbors who are more susceptible to heat-related illnesses are staying cool and hydrated.
• Recognize Heat-Related Illnesses: Be aware of the symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke, which include heavy sweating, weakness, dizziness, and nausea. Severe cases can cause high body temperature or unconsciousness. If symptoms of heat stroke occur, immediately call 911. Learn more at ready.gov/heat. 
• Keep Pets Cool: Pet owners are reminded to ensure their animals are kept cool and hydrated. Never leave pets in a parked car, as temperatures can quickly become life-threatening.