The National Weather Service is predicting more dangerous heat conditions that’ll last until Monday.
Both dangerous heat and humidity conditions are expected all weekend but the worst of the heat will occur Friday and into the weekend, with heat index values expected to top out above 110 degrees over much of the area, NWS said.
Through the weekend residents from Virginia Beach up to Williamsburg can expect a heat index of up to 113 degrees.
On Monday it “cools off” just a bit with heat index values up to 105 degrees.
Late day showers and thunderstorms are possible on Monday afternoon through the evening, cooling things off going into Tuesday.
Hot and humid conditions continue today, and will peak over the coming weekend. Afternoon Heat Index values will range from 105-110° today and 105-115° over the weekend. This dangerous heat will cause heat stroke quickly so take frequent breaks and be sure to check on neighbors! pic.twitter.com/XXwLzJC5rp
— NWS Wakefield (@NWSWakefieldVA) July 19, 2019
Staying cool
Since the temperatures are so high, the risks of heat cramps, heat exhaustion and even heat stroke are high.
NWS is warning people to stay inside as much as possible and to drink plenty of fluids and wear sun protection when going outside.
They have provided a graphic to help show the difference between heat exhaustion and heat stroke:
NWS also urges people to check on their elderly neighbors, those who are ill and also those who live without air conditioning.
The Virginia Department of Health asks residents to check on those who have respiratory illnesses or are at risk of getting one.
“A variety of germs cause respiratory illness, some with increased activity in summer months,” said State Health Commissioner M. Norman Oliver. “We encourage everyone to take steps to minimize the severity and prevent spreading illness to others.”
Officials warn of extreme heat dangers to older people, too, saying it can be dangerous for older adults and people with heart and lung disease.
Local libraries, malls, museums, recreation centers and other public spaces are good places to go to get out of the heat.
For more information about heat safety and weather reports, click here.
