STERLING VA: (Rocktown Now) – The National Weather Service has issued a Heat Advisory from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. EDT Wednesday for portions of north-central and western Maryland, northwest and western Virginia, and eastern and panhandle West Virginia.
Forecasters say heat index values — a measure of how hot it feels when humidity is combined with air temperature — could reach 103 degrees during the afternoon hours.
Officials warn that the combination of high temperatures and elevated humidity may increase the risk of heat-related illnesses, particularly for older adults, young children, outdoor workers and those without access to air conditioning.
Residents are encouraged to drink plenty of fluids, remain in air-conditioned environments whenever possible, avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, and check on relatives, neighbors and other vulnerable individuals.
Emergency officials advise anyone experiencing symptoms of heat exhaustion or heat stroke to seek immediate medical attention.
The WSVA local AccuWeather forecast for Harrisonburg and the Shenandoah Valley
Tonight: a crystal-clear sky. Low 63. Winds west-southwest 4-8 mph.
Tomorrow: very hot with blazing sunshine. Danger of dehydration and heatstroke if outside for extended periods of time. High 97. Winds west-southwest 3-6 mph.
Thursday: partly sunny and toasty conditions. High 96. Winds west-southwest 3-6 mph.
Friday: hot with partial sunshine; a thunderstorm in the afternoon. High 92. Winds north 3-6 mph.
Saturday: cloudy and humid with a thunderstorm in a couple of spots in the afternoon. High 83. Winds southwest 4-8 mph.
Historical weather data for this date at the Dale Enterprise Weather Station
High: 99 in 1966
Low: 48 in 1974
Precipitation: 1.50 in 1946
