WASHINGTON — Extreme heat in the D.C. metro area has been crushing records and sent temperatures soaring well into the 90s over the holiday weekend. More dangerous temperatures are expected this week. Here's what you need to know.
How hot will it get?
Highs on Monday broke records , Tuesday and Wednesday. Dulles hit a high of 100 degrees Wednesday afternoon. Dulles could hit another record high on Thursday, even though highs will mainly be in the mid 90s, according to WUSA9 meteorologists. With higher humidity, the heat index will make it feel as hot as 102 or higher in a few areas Thursday afternoon. Storms are also in the forecast Thursday.
When do we cool off?
So when does this extreme heat break? The short answer is Friday. A dominant area of high pressure has parked itself over region. The heat dome, or large area of persistent high pressure that traps heat, will continue bring hot and humid conditions Thursday. The high will begin to move out as a cold front approaches the area. Highs will be in the upper 80s to near 90 Friday. It will be slightly cooler by Saturday with highs in the mid 80s. By next week could see a string of days with days with highs in the 70s.
Here's a timeline for the heat:
Thursday: Highs: 92-97.
Hottest Part of Day: now - 6 p.m.
Symptoms of heat-related health problems:
Heat attacks the body from within. Here are some symptoms of heat-related illnesses to be aware of, according to The National Weather Service.
Heat Cramps
- Symptoms: Painful muscle cramps and spasms usually in the legs and abdomen and heavy sweating.
Heat Exhaustion:
- Symptoms: Heavy sweating, Weakness or tiredness, cool, pale, clammy skin; fast, weak pulse, muscle cramps, dizziness, nausea or vomiting, headache, fainting.
Heat Stroke:
- Symptoms: Throbbing headache, confusion, nausea, dizziness, body temperature above 103°F, hot, red, dry or damp skin, rapid and strong pulse, fainting, loss of consciousness.