Editor's Note: Go here for the latest forecast on Friday, July 22, 2022.
A heat advisory for the Washington, D.C., area is over after storms moved in and the temperature dropped.
The hottest weather of the year is gripping the region for the next four to five days.
Severe thunderstorm watches were issued for Calvert and St. Mary's counties. Severe thunderstorm warnings were in effect elsewhere in Maryland but later expired. Go here to see all weather alerts from the National Weather Service.
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High temperatures rocketed to the mid- to upper 90s Thursday.
The heat index — or feels-like temperatures — may reach 100° to 105° due to humidity.
Widely scattered storms could develop as a front pushes in during the afternoon, especially south and east of D.C. There’s a 20% chance of rain, but any storms could become severe due to the heat.
Temperatures will continue ramping up, and Sunday is likely to be the hottest day.
Eleven outdoor pools in D.C. will operate with extended hours on Friday, Saturday and Sunday, Mayor Muriel Bowser announced Thursday. Go here for the list of indoor pools, outdoor pools and spray parks.
Sweaty Weekend Forecast: More Searing Heat in the DC Area
Relief from the sweltering weather is several days away.
On Friday and Saturday afternoons, temperatures will rise to near 100° and a heat advisory may once again be issued for areas near the Chesapeake Bay. The good news is that it will be slightly less humid.
Unfortunately, Sunday will likely be the peak of this heat wave. Brace for afternoon highs near 100° and higher humidity levels bringing the heat index to 105°-110°. An excessive heat warning is likely to be issued for Sunday.
A cold front will arrive on Monday bringing thunderstorms and lowering the temperatures back to near normal levels — still around 90°.
Heat Safety Tips
Intense heat can quickly become dangerous. Keep an eye on vulnerable groups including newborns, infants, children and the elderly.
“Heat is one of the leading weather-related killers in the United States, resulting in hundreds of fatalities each year,” the National Weather Service says.
To stay safe in the heat, stay hydrated and opt for water and sports drinks over sugary beverages. Take shade breaks. Know the signs of heat-related illness. Avoid strenuous outdoor activities, or move them to the cooler morning hours.
Never leave a pet or kids alone in a parked car. Temperatures in cars can rise to lethal levels within minutes, even with the windows cracked, according to KidsandCars.org.
Wearing loose, light-colored clothing can also help you stay cool.
D.C. says it declares a heat emergency when temperatures or the heat index reach 95°. Cooling centers open during a heat emergency, here's how to find a cooling center plus free transport.
Spray parks and public pools are another way to cool down. Pools and spray parks are open throughout the region.
Will D.C. Reach 100°?
Temperatures in D.C. haven’t reached officially reached 100° since August 2016 (The heat index, which factors in humidity to explain how hot your body thinks it is, has reached triple-digits several times throughout the summer).
But that could change this weekend. Storm Team4 Meteorologist Chuck Bell has upped the chances of seeing triple-digit temps.
Chances of reaching 100° are 10% on Friday, 40% on Saturday and 60% on Sunday.
