Storms Move Through; Heat Concerns Remain

Severe thunderstorm warnings were issued in the D.C. area Tuesday evening after an afternoon of building, intense heat in the region.

The hot and humid conditions continued through the evening, reported News4 chief meteorologist Doug Kammerer, with the heat index remaining close to 100 through 7 p.m.

The real story, however, remains the heat and humidity. It could become potentially unbearable by the start of the weekend. The National Weather Service has already issued an excessive heat watch for Thursday. That most likely will be extended to Friday and Saturday, Kammerer said.

This should be the most intense heat wave of the summer, according to Kammerer. The high temperature reached 97 degrees Tuesday. Wednesday's high should reach 95 degrees with a heat index between 100 and 105. The highs on Thursday, Friday and Saturday will be around the 100-degree mark, and we could see heat indexes over 110 in some areas.

As for any more rain, well, we're probably out of luck the rest of the week. There is a slight chance of showers and storms to the west of Washington on Wednesday (closer to higher terrain), but that's about it.

Try to beat the heat by staying indoors. If you have to go out, keep your physical activity to a minimum.

Pepco is urging customers to conserve energy as air conditioners crank up to full blast. While power supply in the region is expected to be sufficient to meet anticipated high demand, Pepco said it is staffing to quickly address any equipment issues that may arise from heat or potential storms resulting from the heat.

Pepco also offers the following energy-saving tips:

  • Set air-conditioning thermostats at 78 degrees and use an electric fan, which doesn’t require as much energy, and the air will seem cooler without sacrificing comfort.
  • Keep window shades, blinds, or drapes closed to block the sunlight during the hottest part of the day and retain cooler air inside your home or business.
  • Limit the use of electrically heated water and turn off non-essential appliances and as many lights as possible.
  • Limit opening refrigerator or freezer doors.
  • Postpone using high-energy appliances like electric stoves, washing machines, dishwashers and dryers until the evening.

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