Heat warning: Augusta County, Staunton could reach triple digit heat index Friday

Portrait of Jeff Schwaner Jeff Schwaner
Staunton News Leader
The afternoon sun beats through a maple tree in downtown Staunton on July 5, 2024.

Yes, it's wicked hot.

Augusta County is under a Heat Advisory until 8 p.m. Friday evening. The high temperature is expected to be around 95, with a heat index of 101, according to the National Weather Service.

The NWS advises people to stay hydrated and stay in an air-conditioned room if possible.

Stay out of the sun "and check up on relatives and neighbors. Young children and pets should never be left unattended in vehicles under any circumstances."

Take extra precautions if you work or spend time outside. When possible reschedule strenuous activities to early morning or evening. Know the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Wear lightweight and loose fitting clothing when possible.

Don't leave pets (or people) in vehicles.

Anyone overcome by heat should be moved to a cool and shaded location. Heat stroke is real and dangerous. Call 9 1 1 in the case of an emergency.

A second NWS advisory warns about potentially hazardous weather tonight and Saturday.

"A severe thunderstorm or two is possible this evening along and west of the Blue Ridge, with damaging wind gusts as the main threat," according to NWS. "Hot and humid conditions likely continue into Saturday. Scattered severe thunderstorms are possible Saturday afternoon and evening. Damaging wind gusts are the primary threat. Isolated instances of flooding are possible as well."