RICHMOND, Va. (WTVR) – A Heat Advisory is in effect Wednesday for 11 a.m. through 8 p.m. for all of central, northern, and eastern Virginia. Heat Index values this afternoon will easily climb to 105 to 109 degrees as a result of the combination of high heat (afternoon high temperatures will be in the upper 90s to around 100 degrees) and high dew point temperatures in the upper 60s and low 70s.
Here is a Heat Index chart for your reference:
IMAGE: National Weather Service
And if you’re interested in seeing how we calculate the Heat Index based on air temperature and the dew point temperature, here is that chart:
In addition to the dangerous heat index this afternoon, there is also a Code Orange Air Quality Alert for nearly all of central Virginia, including everywhere along the I-95 corridor. It will be hazy again today, with mostly sunny skies and the UV Index popping back into the Very High category.
For information about cooling shelters in your area, dial 211.
The City of Richmond posted the following information on their website:
"The City will open three cooling shelters Wednesday, July 18 to assist residents with the forecasted high temperatures. City cooling shelters are opened when the temperature and/or heat index reaches or exceeds the 95 degree mark. All residents should take measures to stay hydrated and avoid prolonged exposure to the heat during the day. The shelters will open from Noon to 5 p.m. at the following locations:
● Southside Community Service Center, 4100 Hull Street Road
● Department of Social Services, 900 East Marshall Street
● East District Center, 701 North 25th Street
Bottled water will be available, but food will not be provided. Pets, with the exception of service animals, are not allowed.
For more information regarding cooling services, residents can contact the Department of Social Services Fuel Assistance Office at (804) 646-7046. Elderly residents with heat related issues can contact the Adult Protective Service Unit at (804) 646-0501. In the event of a heat related emergency, please call 9-1-1."
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Meteorologist Carrie Rose
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