Richmond, Va. – A sweltering heat wave is gripping Virginia this weekend, with heat index values expected to soar past 110° in parts of the state by Tuesday, prompting urgent warnings from forecasters.
According to the National Weather Service in Wakefield, a ridge of high pressure is driving an extended period of extreme heat and humidity across central and eastern Virginia. Temperatures today (Saturday) will reach the low 90s inland and upper 80s along the coast, with heat indices rising steadily through early next week.
By Sunday, heat index values could hit 105° in areas like Richmond, Petersburg, and Williamsburg. That number climbs higher Monday and Tuesday, with dangerous 110° heat index readings possible from Emporia to Norfolk. Cities including Suffolk, Franklin, and Newport News are also in the high-risk zone.
Residents should limit outdoor activity during peak afternoon hours, stay hydrated, and check on vulnerable neighbors. The heat wave, coming just days into summer, is pushing conditions far above the June average of 88°. Local agencies may issue additional alerts as the week unfolds.
Excessive heat will likely persist into midweek. NWS urges residents to stay weather-aware and take precautions through at least Tuesday evening.
