The National Weather Service has issued a Heat Advisory for Wednesday and an Extreme Heat Watch for Thursday and Friday for Montgomery County, the District of Columbia, and much of the surrounding region as dangerously hot and humid conditions are expected to return.
The Heat Advisory will be in effect from 11am to 8pm Wednesday, with heat index values expected to reach as high as 106 degrees. Conditions are forecast to become even more dangerous beginning Thursday morning through Friday evening, when the Extreme Heat Watch takes effect. Forecasters say heat index values could climb to 112 degrees, creating a significant risk for heat-related illnesses.
The advisory includes Montgomery County, Prince George’s County, Frederick County, Carroll County, Howard County, Anne Arundel County, Charles County, Baltimore City, Baltimore County, Harford County, Cecil County, Washington, D.C., and portions of Northern Virginia.
Officials urge residents to drink plenty of water, stay in air-conditioned spaces when possible, avoid prolonged exposure to the sun, and check on elderly relatives, neighbors, and others who may be especially vulnerable to extreme heat.
Anyone who must spend time outdoors is encouraged to wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing and limit strenuous activities to the early morning or evening hours. Employers with outdoor workers are encouraged to schedule frequent rest breaks in shaded or air-conditioned areas. Officials also remind the public that heat stroke is a medical emergency and anyone showing signs of heat illness should be moved to a cooler location immediately and 911 should be called if symptoms become severe.
