Code Orange Alert In Herndon

HERNDON, VA -- In a sure sign that summer is on its way, the National Weather Service has issued the first air quality alert of the season for the Herndon and greater D.C. area.

Authorities have issued a Code Orange air quality alert for Wednesday for the D.C. metro area, which means that air pollution concentrations within the region may be unhealthy for sensitive groups.

"Sensitive groups include children, people suffering from asthma, heart disease or other lung diseases and the elderly," the alert states. "The effects of air pollution can be minimized by avoiding strenuous activity or exercise outdoors."

Highs will be well into the 80s and perhaps near 90 degrees -- not quite the depths of summer, but certainly toastier than a normal spring day.

And these temperatures should be temporary, with things cooling off by this weekend.

Image via National Weather Service