Extreme Heat Coming In Alexandria, Cooling Centers Offered

ALEXANDRIA, VA — A heat wave is approaching Alexandria as temperatures are expected to near 100 degrees Fahrenheit several days this week.

High temperatures of 91 are forecast Tuesday and Wednesday before heating up to 97 Thursday, 99 on Friday and 98 on Saturday. According to the National Weather Service, heat index values may be between 105 and 110 during the afternoons of Thursday to Saturday. High index values are typically the result of high temperatures combined with humidity.

During extreme heat events, heat-related illnesses are possible as the body's ability to cool itself can be challenged. Heat-related illnesses like heat exhaustion, cramps, or heat stroke result from the body heating too quickly and not being able to properly cool itself or through dehydration or sweating.

Heat exhaustion can involve symptoms like heavy sweating, weakness or tiredness, cool and clammy ski, fast and weak pulse, muscle cramps, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, headache or fainting. A person experiencing heat exhaustion should be moved to a cooler area and given cool, wet cloths or a cool bath.

Heat stroke is considered more serious and can involve a throbbing headache; confusion; nausea; dizziness; body temperature above 103 degrees; hot, red, dry or damp skin; rapid and strong pulse; or fainting. In this case, call 911 or take the person to a hospital immediately while moving the person to a cooler area and using cool clothes or bath. A person experiencing heat stroke should not be given fluids.

The National Weather Service encourages residents to limit exposure to the sun, stay indoors, avoid strenuous activities during the hottest parts of the day, drink plenty of water, and wear loose, lightweight, and light-colored clothing. Residents can also check on elderly or sick neighbors and avoid leaving pets or children in parked cars.

Alexandria residents without access to cooling in their homes or simply a place to cool off can find various options around the city. Cooling centers are designated at recreation centers and library branches.

The following locations are cooling centers in Alexandria. Check links for hours at each location.

The city also has several pools: Memorial Pool at 901 Wythe St., Old Town Pool at 1609 Cameron St., and Warwick Pool at 3301 Landover St. The Potomac Yard Park Interactive Fountain is also open 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily through Labor Day weekend.

During extreme heat conditions, the city may designate expanded hours and resources at recreation centers to help residents in need. Residents can sign up for city updates to learn when the city is responding to extreme heat.