HISTORIC TRIANGLE — According to the National Weather Service, an Extreme Heat Warning remains in effect for most of the area, with heat indices forecast to reach 110° or higher.
Tuesday will be the hottest day of the week, according to NWS, which advises planning ahead and taking frequent breaks if you must be outside, stay hydrated and provide plenty of water and shade for any outdoor animals. For more information on heat safety, visit weather.gov/safety/heat.
James City County residents and visitors who need to cool off are encouraged to head to the James City County Recreation Center or the Williamsburg Regional Library during open hours, the county said. With the exception of service animals, the county cautions pets are not allowed in the buildings.
In York County, beat the heat by heading to one of the York County Public Library locations.
The Virginia Department of Health provides the following tips to avoid heat-related illness during the summer:
- Drink water. When the temperature rises, it is important to drink plenty of water. Drinks that contain caffeine, large amounts of sugar or alcohol should be avoided because they can cause you to become dehydrated.
- Keep cool indoors. On hot days, prevent illness by keeping cool indoors. If your home is not air conditioned, try to spend the hottest hours of the day in a cool public place such as a library, movie theater, or store.
- Dress for the heat. Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing. Light colors will reflect away some of the sun’s energy. It is also a good idea to wear hats or to use an umbrella. Always apply sunscreen to exposed skin.
- Limit physical activity. Avoid excessive physical exertion in hot temperatures, especially in the middle of the day. If you must work outdoors, stay hydrated by drinking 2-4 glasses of water each hour and take frequent breaks in a cool place. Even a few hours in an air-conditioned environment reduces the danger of heat-related illness.
- Do not keep children or pets in cars. Temperatures inside a car with windows up can reach over 150 degrees quickly, resulting in heat stroke and death.
- Check on your neighbors. Although anyone can suffer heat-related illness, some people are at greater risk than others. People aged 65 or older are particularly susceptible to heat-related illnesses and complications that can result during periods of high temperatures and humidity.
