Extreme Heat Watch Issued for DC, Maryland, and Virginia
The National Weather Service (NWS) Baltimore MD/Washington DC has issued an Extreme Heat Watch for portions of the District of Columbia, Maryland, and Virginia. This watch is in effect from Saturday morning through Saturday evening on July 4, with heat index values possibly reaching up to 110 degrees Fahrenheit.
The Extreme Heat Watch, issued on July 2 at 8:36 AM EDT, covers areas including District of Columbia; Frederick; Carroll; Northern Baltimore; Cecil; Southern Baltimore; Prince Georges; Anne Arundel; Charles; St. Marys; Calvert; Northwest Montgomery; Central and Southeast Montgomery; Northwest Howard; Central and Southeast Howard; Northwest Harford; Southeast Harford; and Albemarle.
Dangerous conditions are anticipated, with heat index values up to 110 degrees Fahrenheit possible during the watch period on Saturday. Prior to this, an Extreme Heat Warning was in effect until 8 PM EDT on July 2, with expected heat index values up to 111 degrees Fahrenheit. Another Extreme Heat Warning was issued from 10 AM to 8 PM EDT on Friday, July 3, forecasting heat index values up to 112 degrees Fahrenheit.
Officials note that heat-related illnesses increase significantly during extreme heat and high humidity events. These conditions can pose a risk to public health.