Washington, D.C. – Scorching heat will grip the D.C. metro area and surrounding regions Friday, with heat index values climbing as high as 109°F across parts of Maryland, Virginia, and the District.
According to the National Weather Service in Baltimore/Washington, a Heat Advisory is in effect from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Friday for nearly 30 counties, including the entire D.C. area, Baltimore metro, Northern Virginia, and portions of the eastern panhandle of West Virginia. While D.C. and Baltimore could feel like 109°F, areas like Shenandoah, Frederick (VA), and Berkeley (WV) could experience heat indices around 103°F.
Local health officials warn that heat-related illnesses like heat exhaustion and heat stroke become more likely under these conditions, especially for vulnerable populations. Cities under the advisory include Washington, Baltimore, Frederick, Arlington, Annapolis, Manassas, and Winchester.
To stay safe, limit outdoor activity to early morning or evening hours, wear lightweight clothing, and stay hydrated. Those without air conditioning are urged to seek cooling centers or public spaces such as libraries and malls. Parents and pet owners should never leave children or animals unattended in vehicles, even for a moment.
This is the region’s most intense heat wave so far this summer, and additional advisories may follow if conditions persist into the weekend.
