Even Hotter Conditions Hit Mid-Atlantic, Southeast

Increasing temperatures and humidity will develop in the Mid-Atlantic, Southeast, and the Ohio and Tennessee Valleys through this weekend.

A large ridge of high pressure stretches from the southern Plains to the Mid-Atlantic, which will keep the hot temperatures around much of the central and eastern U.S. The strongest anomalies will be found from the Lower Midwest into the Mid-Atlantic and will expand into the southeastern U.S. this weekend.

Heat Advisories and Excessive Heat Warnings stretch from Indiana and southern Michigan to the northern Mid-Atlantic and Connecticut. Highs will climb into the 90s at the peak of the heat wave, with heat indices climbing into the 100s. Afternoon showers and thunderstorms in the northernmost areas could provide some relief from the heat at times. Heat Advisories has also recently been issued for northern Virginia into Maryland, with heat index values ranging between 100-110 degrees on Saturday and Sunday.

If you are planning to head to a river or the ocean this week, use extreme caution - especially across the Northeast. Water temperatures in the Atlantic Ocean off the New England coast are only in the 60s, with 50s found along the Maine coastline. Many rivers are only in the 60s as well. Water temperatures this cold can lead to hypothermia within 15-30 minutes, causing muscles to freeze up and making swimming difficult on an already dangerous current.

If you are in one of these areas experiencing unseasonably hot temperatures, it will be important to stay hydrated and cool. Avoid exposure to the sun from late morning into the early evening. Take frequent breaks in the A.C. or shade. Eat and dress lightly. Use sun protection if outdoors. Never leave kids or pets unattended and remember to “Look Before You Lock!” Recognize the signs of heat-related illness.