Washington is gearing up for a heat wave toward the end of the week, as the hottest temperatures in seven years are expected to hit the nation's capital.
The first day of extreme heat is forecast to hit Thursday afternoon, with temperatures reaching the upper 90s. It is expected to peak on Friday or Saturday with highs around 100 degrees — record highs for Thursday and Friday.
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Extreme heat kills more people than any other type of weather, so it is important for residents of Washington, Maryland, and Virginia to be aware of risks and how to stay cool.
Here is a guide to extreme heat waves, symptoms from heat, and how residents can protect themselves.
Projected highs
The National Weather Service predicts over 100-degree days for Thursday through Saturday.
On Thursday, the maximum heat index is expected to be 107 degrees in Washington and Baltimore. Heat indexes for areas of Virginia vary from 98 to 105 degrees.
Scattered to numerous showers and thunderstorms are expected Thursday afternoon in the area.
"Strong to severe storms are possible with damaging winds being the greatest threat," National Weather Service Baltimore-Washington posted Thursday.
Fox 5 Weather predicted a heat index of 106 degrees on Friday.
A Heat Advisory has been issued for Thursday. Maximum heat indices in the advisory area are expected to be 105-109 degrees. Outside of the advisory, it will still be hot. Heat and humidity will increase the potential for heat related illnesses, particularly for those outdoors. pic.twitter.com/kgggr7V88z
— NWS Baltimore-Washington (@NWS_BaltWash) July 26, 2023
Hot Weather Emergency
Washington Mayor Muriel Bowser declared a "hot weather emergency" beginning Wednesday and ending Sunday.
Emergencies are authorized when the temperature or heat index is forecast to reach 95 degrees or higher for at least four consecutive days.
Under the hot weather emergency, Washington officials plan to set up cooling centers, and residents can request transportation to these shelters using the hotline (202) 399-7093 or by calling 311.
Homeless people can visit the Downtown Day Services Center, which will be open from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Thursday through Friday and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday with no appointment necessary. Services include restrooms, bottled water, and snacks.
Recreation services in Washington
All 33 Spray Parks will be open daily from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., and 22 outdoor pools will be open six days a week.
All outdoor pools will be open on Saturday and Sunday in Washington, as well as nine of the Department of Parks and Recreation's indoor pools, with at least one available every day of the week.
All Parks and Recreation camps and activities will move indoors for the duration of the hot weather emergency.
Effects of extreme heat
During heat waves, people can be susceptible to three heat-related conditions, according to the American Red Cross.
The conditions are heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke.
People experiencing heat cramps will be heavily sweating and have muscle pains or spasms. If that occurs, move into a cool place and drink water. Seek medical help if the cramps continue for over an hour or if the person affected has a heart problem.
Heat exhaustion can have many symptoms, such as heavy sweating, cold and clammy skin, a weak pulse, nausea, vomiting, headaches, and dizziness. People experiencing heat exhaustion should move to a cool place, loosen tight clothing, and sip water slowly. Medical attention may be needed if vomiting occurs or confusion develops, as well as if symptoms last for over an hour or get worse.
Heat stroke will result in high body temperatures, hot or red skin, a fast pulse, and possibly passing out. To help someone with heat stroke, call 911 and cool the body using wet cloths. People experiencing heat stroke should not drink anything.
Extreme heat precautions
To protect from extreme heat waves, here are a few tips:
People should stay indoors when possible and also keep pets indoors. If people venture outside, find areas with shade or air conditioning to seek relief from the heat.
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Check in on neighbors, particularly children and elderly, as well as those with disabilities or medical problems who may be more susceptible to heat-related conditions.
People should increase their fluid intake but avoid liquids containing alcohol, sugar, or caffeine. Also, people should wear lightweight and light-colored clothing and sunscreen.