Blazing sun and oppressive humidity sent the heat index soaring to dangerous levels Thursday, Storm Team4 said.
Thursday's high reached the mid-90s. With the humidity, the heat index reached 106 degrees Thursday afternoon. It was 104 in D.C. at 4 p.m.
"The heat index tells you how it feels outside in the shade," the Maryland Department of Health and Mental Hygiene says on its website. "The heat index is a measurement of how it feels when relative humidity is combined with the effects of the air temperature."
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Storm Team4 declared Thursday a Weather Alert Day.
A heat advisory went into effect for the I-95 corridor to the east at noon Thursday, Storm Team4 Chief Meteorologist Doug Kammerer said.
Strong storms are also possible Thursday evening.
With heat indices this high, you can get a sunburn in just 10 minutes, Storm Team meteorologist Sheena Parveen said.
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But there is some good news: The temperature is expected to drop slightly Friday, and fall into the 80s over the weekend. Storm Team4 declared Friday a Weather Alert Day as strong storms are likely.
Until then, here are some ways to avoid heat-related illnesses:
- Drink plenty of water and avoid drinks that have a lot of caffeine or large amounts of sugar.
- Keep cool indoors.
- Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing and apply sunscreen.
- Avoid excessive physical activity, especially midday.
- Do not keep children or pets in cars.
- Find more tips here.
