Heat Index Could Pass 102 In Greater Alexandria: Weather Forecast

FORT HUNT, VA—If you're planning to attend outdoor activities this weekend, you may want to consider staying in the pool or simply cranking up the AC. The Greater Alexandria area is under a heat advisory Thursday until 7 p.m., and these conditions may continue throughout the weekend.

The heat index, or "feels like" temperature, could pass 102 degrees Thursday in Fort Hunt, according to the National Weather Service. (Sign up for real time alerts and a newsletter. iPhone users can download the Patch app in the App Store. Plus, like Greater Alexandria Patch on Facebook.)

Here's a timeline of the "feels like" temperature throughout the heat advisory, according to weather.com:

• 2 p.m.: 105 degrees
• 3 p.m.: 105 degrees
• 4 p.m.: 105 degrees
• 5 p.m.: 105 degrees
• 6 p.m.: 102 degrees
• 7 p.m: 100 degrees

On Friday, there's a slight chance of thunderstorms and showers, but the heat will continue to feel uncomfortable. The heat index could reach 103, and temperatures will reach 96.

Saturday will have a chance of thunderstorms in the morning and night, but don't expect it to cool off that much. Fort Hunt will see a high of 95 and low of 76. Temperatures will remain around the same Sunday, and chances of thunderstorms will continue through Monday. By Tuesday, temperatures dropping to a high of 86 and low of 70 will seem like a much-needed change.

Fairfax County offers the following tips to stay cool during the dog days of summer:

• Drink two to four glasses of cool fluids each hour to keep cool.
• Do not drink caffeinated or alcoholic beverages, as they dehydrate the body.
• Stay in an air-conditioned area. Resting for just two hours in air conditioning can significantly reduce heat-related illnesses.
• Plan outdoor activities and physical activities around the hottest part of the day. Go outside before noon or at night when it's cooler.
• Eat light meals, avoiding high-protein foods because they increase metabolic heat.
• Don’t take salt tablets unless directed by a physician.
• Avoid wearing dark-colored clothing in the sun.
• Wear sunscreen, since sunburn makes it more difficult to cool off.
• Never leave children or pets unattended in a car.
• Ensure your home's cooling system is working properly.
• Make sure your home is well insulated to keep cool air inside.

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