Surviving scorching temperatures during an emergency warning: Essential heat wave safety tips.
Washington Braces for Record-Breaking Heat Wave
Get ready, Washington! The nation’s capital is about to sizzle as the hottest temperatures in seven years are set to scorch the city. Brace yourself for an extreme heat wave that will hit towards the end of the week.
What to Expect
The first day of this scorching heat is expected to arrive on Thursday afternoon, with temperatures soaring into the upper 90s. But hold on tight because the real heatwave will peak on Friday or Saturday, with highs reaching a scorching 100 degrees. These temperatures will break records for both Thursday and Friday.
“Extreme heat kills more people than any other type of weather, so it is crucial for residents of Washington, Maryland, and Virginia to be aware of the risks and know how to stay cool,” warns the National Weather Service.
Projected Highs
The National Weather Service predicts that Thursday through Saturday will see over 100-degree days. Brace yourself for a maximum heat index of 107 degrees in Washington and Baltimore on Thursday. Meanwhile, areas of Virginia can expect heat indexes ranging from 98 to 105 degrees. Keep an eye out for scattered showers and thunderstorms on Thursday afternoon.
According to Fox 5 Weather, Friday will bring a scorching heat index of 106 degrees.
Hot Weather Emergency
Washington Mayor Muriel Bowser has declared a “hot weather emergency” starting Wednesday and ending Sunday. This emergency is authorized when the temperature or heat index is forecasted to reach 95 degrees or higher for at least four consecutive days.
Under this emergency, Washington officials have set up cooling centers for residents to seek relief from the heat. If you need transportation to these shelters, call the hotline (202) 399-7093 or dial 311. Homeless individuals can visit the Downtown Day Services Center, open from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Thursday and Friday, and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday, no appointment necessary. Services provided include restrooms, bottled water, and snacks.
Recreation Services in Washington
Don’t worry, there are options to beat the heat 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. On weekends, all outdoor pools will be open, along with at least one indoor pool available every day of the week. Additionally, 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, it’s important to be aware of three heat-related conditions: heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke. If you or someone you know experiences heat cramps, move to a cool place, drink water, and seek medical help if the cramps persist for over an hour or if there are underlying heart problems.
Heat exhaustion can manifest in various symptoms, including heavy sweating, cold and clammy skin, a weak pulse, nausea, vomiting, headaches, and dizziness. If you experience heat exhaustion, find a cool place, loosen tight clothing, sip water slowly, and seek medical attention if symptoms worsen or last for over an hour.
Heat stroke is a serious condition characterized by high body temperatures, hot or red skin, a fast pulse, and potential loss of consciousness. If someone experiences heat stroke, call 911 immediately and cool the body using wet cloths. Do not give them anything to drink.
Extreme Heat Precautions
To protect yourself and others from the extreme heat, here are some tips:
- Stay indoors as much as possible, and keep your pets indoors too.
- If you must go outside, seek shade or air-conditioned areas for relief.
- Check on your neighbors, especially children, the elderly, and those with disabilities or medical conditions.
- Stay hydrated by increasing your fluid intake, but avoid alcoholic, sugary, or caffeinated beverages.
- Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing, and don’t forget to apply sunscreen.
Stay safe and cool during this scorching heat wave!
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