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Fairfax County is facing an unusually early burst of summer weather, with temperatures forecast to climb into the low 90s and potentially break records set decades ago.
The National Weather Service placed the county under a Moderate Heat Risk as a hot air mass settles over the region. The heat is expected to persist through Saturday before cooler weather arrives Sunday.
Temperatures were forecast to reach 91 degrees Wednesday and 92 Thursday. Such conditions are more typical of late June or July than mid-April.
Wednesday’s forecast threatened records at both of the region’s major airports. Dulles International Airport’s April 15 record was 87 degrees, set in 1967, while Reagan National Airport’s record was 89 degrees, set in 1941. Additional records could be challenged Thursday.
Humidity is not expected to be a major factor, with heat index readings remaining in the low 90s and close to the actual air temperature. The heat itself, however, could be hazardous because residents have not yet adjusted to summerlike conditions.
A moderate rating is the third level on the Weather Service’s five-point heat-risk scale. It signals an increased risk of heat-related illness for sensitive groups, including adults 65 and older, infants, young children, outdoor workers and people with chronic health conditions. Pregnant women are also particularly vulnerable.
The forecast does not meet the threshold for activating Fairfax County’s heat plan. That plan requires heat index values of at least 105 degrees along with a Weather Service advisory, watch or warning.
Residents who need help staying cool may qualify for the county’s Cooling Assistance Program, which can help cover electric bills and air-conditioning repairs. The Senior Cool Care Program provides fans to low-income adults who are 60 or older.
Staying Safe in the Heat
Residents should limit time outside during the hottest part of the day, generally between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. Anyone exercising or working outdoors should schedule activities for the morning or evening when possible and take frequent breaks in shade or air conditioning.
Officials recommend drinking water throughout the day, even before feeling thirsty, and avoiding alcohol and caffeine because they can contribute to dehydration. Lightweight, loose-fitting and light-colored clothing can help, along with sunscreen and a hat.
People without air conditioning can seek relief at libraries, community centers, recreation centers and shopping malls. Residents should also check on older neighbors, relatives and anyone who may lack reliable cooling.
Children and pets should never be left inside parked vehicles. Interior temperatures can become deadly within minutes, even when the windows are cracked.
Heavy sweating, dizziness, weakness, headaches, nausea and muscle cramps can indicate heat exhaustion. A person experiencing those symptoms should move somewhere cool, drink water and rest.
Heat stroke requires immediate medical attention. Warning signs include confusion, loss of consciousness, hot and dry skin, and a body temperature above 103 degrees. Anyone showing those symptoms needs emergency help through 911.
Unusual Warmth Spreads Across the East
Fairfax County is part of a broader early-season heat wave affecting much of the eastern United States. Records were expected to be challenged from Georgia through the New York City area and west toward the Ohio Valley.
John Feerick, a senior meteorologist at AccuWeather.com, described the projected duration of the heat at this point in the year as “borderline unprecedented.” He also warned that the first bout of intense heat can place added stress on people who have not had time to acclimate.
A strong ridge of high pressure was driving the unusual warmth. The heat was expected to continue through Friday in many locations, with temperatures in the lower to middle 90s possible across lower-elevation areas of the Carolinas. Those readings could set daily records and approach monthly records.
A strong cold front is expected to weaken the heat wave by Sunday, followed by significantly cooler conditions Monday.