A severe heat wave is set to impact parts of Maryland, Virginia, and West Virginia, with dangerously high temperatures expected to reach heat index values as high as 107°F in some areas on Monday.
Heat Advisory and Extreme Heat Watch
According to the National Weather Service, a Heat Advisory will be in effect from noon to 8 p.m. Sunday, covering Washington County in Maryland, Shenandoah Valley counties in Virginia, and Berkeley and Jefferson counties in West Virginia.
This will be followed by an Extreme Heat Watch for Monday, with even hotter conditions anticipated from late morning through the evening.
Areas Affected
Communities such as Hagerstown, Winchester, Front Royal, and Martinsburg will experience extreme heat with high humidity. Overnight cooling will be limited, further exacerbating the risks of heat-related illnesses.
Risks and Precautions
The combination of high temperatures and stifling humidity increases the risk for heat-related illnesses, particularly for outdoor workers and vulnerable residents such as the elderly. To stay safe, residents are advised to:
- Limit outdoor activities.
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
- Check on elderly neighbors or those without reliable cooling systems.
- Seek out cooling centers or air-conditioned public spaces if necessary.
What’s Next
The heat wave may expand or intensify as Monday approaches, so further advisories may be issued. Stay updated on weather alerts and take necessary precautions to avoid heat-related risks.
