Dangerous Heat Extended Through July 4: Alexandria Opens Cooling Centers as Heat Index Could Reach 110–112

ALEXANDRIA, VA – If you’re planning to celebrate Independence Day outdoors, prepare for dangerous heat.

The National Weather Service has expanded its Extreme Heat Watch to include Saturday, July 4, as a prolonged heat wave continues across Northern Virginia. Friday remains under an Extreme Heat Warning, with heat index values expected to climb as high as 112 degrees. On Saturday, the heat index could still reach 110 degrees, creating hazardous conditions for anyone spending extended time outside.

City officials are urging residents to stay hydrated, limit outdoor activities during the hottest part of the day, check on elderly neighbors and relatives, and never leave children or pets in parked vehicles.

Cooling Centers and Places to Escape the Heat

Alexandria has expanded several cooling options for residents and visitors:

• Carpenter’s Shelter
  2355-A Mill Road
  Open continuously through Monday, July 6, at 7 a.m.
  Information: 703-746-6551
• DASH Cooling Bus
  • King Street near City Hall (417 King St.) – Through Sunday, July 5, from approximately 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.
  • LA Mart Parking Lot (South Van Dorn Street & Edsall Road) – Open 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
• Charles Houston Recreation Center
  901 Wythe St.
  11 a.m. – 8 p.m.
• Patrick Henry Recreation Center
  4653 Taney Ave.
  11 a.m. – 8 p.m.

Residents can also cool off indoors at several city attractions:

• Torpedo Factory Art Center (105 N. Union St.) – 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
• Alexandria Visitor Center (221 King St.) – 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
• Alexandria museums are open during regular hours this weekend. Admission is free for Alexandria residents.

Know the Warning Signs

Heat exhaustion symptoms include:

• Heavy sweating
• Muscle cramps
• Weakness
• Headache
• Nausea or vomiting
• Dizziness

Move to a cool place immediately, drink water, and rest.

Heat stroke is a medical emergency. Symptoms include:

• Very high body temperature
• Confusion
• Hot, dry skin with little or no sweating
• Rapid, strong pulse
• Loss of consciousness

Call 911 immediately if someone shows signs of heat stroke.

Stay Safe This Holiday Weekend

Officials recommend:

• Drink water before you feel thirsty.
• Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing.
• Take frequent breaks in air conditioning.
• Avoid strenuous outdoor activity during the afternoon.
• Check on older adults, neighbors, and anyone without air conditioning.
• Bring plenty of water if attending holiday events.

For non-emergency questions about cooling locations or City services, call Alex311 at 703-746-4311.

Residents can also monitor the latest weather updates and city operations at alexandriava.gov/Alert.