Blacksburg, VA – A dangerous heat wave is gripping southwest Virginia today, with heat index values soaring as high as 109°F in Danville and Reidsville by late Sunday afternoon.
According to the National Weather Service in Blacksburg, a Heat Advisory is in effect from noon to 8 p.m. Sunday for areas east of the Blue Ridge. Lynchburg, Martinsville, South Boston, and Roanoke are expected to feel temperatures between 104°F and 108°F. The heat index, which accounts for humidity, will remain above 100°F through at least Wednesday for many localities.
Cities including Mt. Airy, Lexington, and South Boston will experience “feels like” temperatures between 103°F and 108°F, with Danville forecasted to hit the peak of 109°F both Sunday and Monday. Roanoke, typically less humid, could still see values as high as 106°F this afternoon.
Health officials urge residents to limit time outdoors, check on vulnerable neighbors, and avoid strenuous activity during peak heat (typically 12–6 p.m.). Pets and young children are especially at risk. Cooling centers are expected to open in select counties.
Storms may bring some temporary relief by midweek, but they also pose a risk of lightning and heavy rainfall. A cooler air mass is forecast to arrive late Thursday into Friday.
⚠️ Heat advisories remain in effect through at least Wednesday. Check weather.gov/rnk for local updates.
🗓️ Five-Day Forecast for Blacksburg and Surrounding Areas
- Sunday: Heat Index up to 95–109°F, Heat Advisory Noon–8 p.m.
- Monday: Continued excessive heat; feels like 100–109°F
- Tuesday: High heat index persists, 98–107°F
- Wednesday: Slight drop but still hot; feels like 88–105°F
- Thursday: Relief possible, especially by evening; heat index 84–101°F
