This is a press release by the Loudoun County government.
Loudoun County officials urge residents to take precautions against the dangerously hot conditions forecast for Loudoun County and the region this week.
The National Weather Service has issued a heat advisory in effect 11:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m., Wednesday, July 1, 2026, with heat index values up to 106 degrees possible. An extreme heat watch is in effect from 11:00 a.m., Thursday, July 2 through 8:00 p.m., Friday July 3, with heat index values up to 112 degrees possible. There is also the risk of severe thunderstorms July 3 through July 5.
Loudoun County Cooling Centers
Certain county facilities will serve as designated cooling centers Wednesday, July 1 and Thursday, July 2. During normal business hours, the facilities will provide air conditioning, water and a place to sit for residents who may need relief from the heat. Note that Loudoun County will observe the Independence Day holiday on Friday, July 3, 2026. Administrative offices and many public facilities, such as those operated by the Department of Parks, Recreation and Community Services, will be closed or operating on adjusted schedules.
County facilities that serve as cooling centers are:
In addition, the Loudoun County Animal Shelter will operate as a pet-friendly facility during regular business hours for residents who are seeking relief from the heat for their companion animals.
Homeless Services Center
In response to the excessive heat, the Loudoun Homeless Services Center, located at 19520 Meadowview Court in Leesburg, will extend its drop-in hours for individuals experiencing homelessness, providing a safe, air-conditioned location during the extreme heat. From Wednesday, July 1 through Saturday, July 4, the center will be open from 8:30 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. The center will also be providing cold water for those seeking relief from the extreme weather.
Guard Against Heat-Related Illness and Lightning Strikes; Protect Your Pets
The combination of hot temperatures and high humidity may cause heat illnesses to occur. In addition to avoiding being outside for long periods of time, Loudoun County officials remind residents to take other precautions to prevent heat-related illnesses and to stay safe from severe thunderstorms.
·Check on your neighbors: Anyone can suffer from heat-related illness, but people aged 65 and older and very young children are more susceptible to the effects of high heat and humidity.
·Drink plenty of water. It’s important to stay hydrated. Avoid sugary, caffeinated and alcoholic drinks.
·Do not leave children or pets in cars.
·If you have to go outside, wear lightweight, light-colored clothing and avoid strenuous activities. Wear sunscreen. Slow down and limit outdoor activities between 11:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m., the hottest time of day.
·Monitor your animals frequently to ensure that they are not in distress. The Loudoun County Department of Animal Services offers useful information on protecting your pets from the heat.
·Practice water safety: If you go in the water, choose a pool with a lifeguard, if possible. Always wear a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket in and around bodies of water while boating, canoeing, kayaking and engaging in other recreational water activities.
·When thunder roars, go indoors: If you hear thunder, you are likely within striking distance of the storm. If you see threatening clouds approach, see lightning or hear thunder, seek safe shelter immediately.
·Know the forecast: Get updated weather information online from the National Weather Service (NWS) at weather.gov/lwx and on the NWS Facebook and X. You may also sign up for weather alerts through Alert Loudoun.
More information about staying safe in excessive heat is online at loudoun.gov/heat.
This is a press release by the Loudoun County government.
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