With extreme heat and humidity in the forecast over the next few days and an excessive heat watch in effect Thursday, August 12, 2021, Loudoun County officials advise residents to be prepared and take precautions against the dangerously hot conditions, which could include heat indices up to 110 degrees. In addition, isolated severe storms and flash flooding are possible.
Protect Yourself Against the Heat
- Spend as much time in air-conditioned locations as possible. Locations such as Loudoun County Public Library branches, Loudoun County community centers and recreation centers, malls and other public buildings may provide some relief to residents who do not have air conditioning in their homes. Please note that face coverings are required in county facilities in an effort to reduce the spread of COVID-19.
- Hydrate: Drink plenty of water. Drinks that contain caffeine, large amounts of sugar or alcohol should be avoided because they can cause you to become dehydrated.
- If you have to go outside, avoid strenuous activities. Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing.
- Do not leave children or pets in cars. Temperatures inside a car with closed windows can reach over 150 degrees quickly, resulting in heat stroke and death.
- Monitor your animals frequently to ensure that they are not suffering. The Loudoun County Department of Animal Services offers useful information on protecting your pets from the heat.
- Check on your neighbors. Anyone can suffer from heat-related illness, but people ages 65 and older and very young children are more susceptible to the effects of high heat and humidity.
More information about staying safe in excessive heat is online at loudoun.gov/heat.
Be Prepared for Storms
- Know the forecast: Get updated weather information online from the National Weather Service (NWS) at weather.gov/lwx and on the NWS Facebook and Twitter. You may also sign up for weather alerts through Alert Loudoun.
- Secure any loose objects outside in your yard or on your deck, such as umbrellas, bins, tools and toys.
- Keep trees and branches trimmed, especially near your house.
- Turn around. Don’t drown. Do not drive through flooded roadways. Just six inches of fast-moving water can knock you down, and one foot of moving water can sweep your vehicle away.
More information about staying safe from storms is online at loudoun.gov/storms.
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