Weather

Heat Warning Issued Wednesday for Northern Virginia

A Code Orange air quality alert means that air pollution concentrations within the region may become unhealthy for sensitive groups.

Mary Ann Barton, Patch StaffVerified Patch Staff Badge
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The combination of temperatures and humidity has prompted local officials to issue a Code Orange air quality alert for Wednesday in the DC metro area including Northern Virginia.

The Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments and the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality issued the alert. The National Weather Service expects highs this week in the 90s with a heat index "feels like" temperature of 100 degrees or higher.

A Code Orange air quality alert means that air pollution concentrations within the region may become unhealthy for sensitive groups including children, the elderly, people suffering from asthma, heart disease or other lung diseases. Officials say to avoid strenuous activity or exercise outdoors Wednesday.

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This week in Northern Virginia, the U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration is reminding employers to protect their workers from heat-related illnesses and injuries.

In 2015, OSHA received more than 200 reports of heat-related worker hospitalizations, and at least eight deaths associated with heat exposure. The agency is currently investigating several worker fatalities reported in 2016.

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OSHA’s free Heat Safety Tool App can calculate the heat index for a worksite, and display the risk level to outdoor workers. With a click, users can get reminders about protective measures that should be taken at that risk level to protect workers from heat-related illness. The free app is available in English and Spanish for iPhone and Android devices.

If a job requires working long hours outdoors during the summer, the employer should take necessary and simple steps to keep workers safe, including:

  • scheduling frequent water breaks
  • providing shaded areas
  • allowing enough time to rest

Officials encourage those who can't escape the heat at home or work to visit local libraries, government community centers, shopping centers or other places with air-conditioning.

The American Red Cross offers these tips during a heat wave:

  • Never leave children or pets alone in enclosed vehicles.
  • Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids even if you do not feel thirsty. Avoid drinks with caffeine or alcohol.
  • Eat small meals and eat more often.
  • Avoid extreme temperature changes.
  • Wear loose-fitting, lightweight, light-colored clothing. Avoid dark colors because they absorb the sun’s rays.
  • Slow down, stay indoors and avoid strenuous exercise during the hottest part of the day.
  • Postpone outdoor games and activities.
  • Use a buddy system when working in excessive heat.
  • Take frequent breaks if you must work outdoors.
  • Check on family, friends and neighbors who do not have air conditioning, who spend much of their time alone or who are more likely to be affected by the heat.
  • Check on your animals frequently to ensure that they are not suffering from the heat.


    • Photo courtesy Shutterstock

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