Washington, D.C. Weather Alert: Heat Index Soars to 107°F — Heat Advisory in Effect Until 8 PM Friday

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The District and surrounding metro areas are enduring a sweltering day as the heat index climbs to a dangerous 107°F, prompting the National Weather Service to issue a Heat Advisory effective until 8 p.m. Friday.

The advisory blankets D.C., northern and central Virginia, central and northern Maryland, and parts of West Virginia’s panhandle. Forecasters warn that heat index values will remain between 102°F and 107°F through the hottest parts of the afternoon, putting thousands at risk for heat exhaustion or heat stroke.

Who’s Affected

The advisory covers a wide area, including but not limited to:

Arlington, Alexandria, and Fairfax in Virginia
Montgomery, Prince George’s, and Frederick counties in Maryland
Washington, D.C. proper
Culpeper and Loudoun Counties
Martinsburg, WV and Eastern Allegany County

Health & Safety Warnings

The extreme heat significantly raises the potential for heat-related illnesses, especially for:

Children
The elderly
Outdoor workers
People without air conditioning

Metro commuters, construction crews, landscapers, and delivery workers are urged to take frequent shaded breaks, stay hydrated, and wear light, loose-fitting clothing.

Cooling Centers & Emergency Services

Cooling centers are now open throughout the region in response to the heat emergency:

Montgomery County: Various libraries and recreation centers
Prince George’s County: Community centers and shelters
Loudoun County: Senior centers and designated relief areas

Local officials are asking residents to:

Check on vulnerable neighbors
Keep pets indoors or in shaded areas
Never leave children or animals unattended in vehicles

Evening Commute Still Dangerous

Although the sun begins to set after 8 p.m., temperatures will remain high into the evening hours. Urban areas like Baltimore, Manassas, and D.C. may not see temperatures fall below 90°F until well after sunset.

Weekend Outlook

Meteorologists are closely monitoring patterns that suggest continued extreme heat into the weekend. There is a possibility of new advisories or warnings being issued as early as Saturday morning.

Residents are encouraged to: