Heat to Last Through Weekend

An excessive heat warning is in effect from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Saturday, as temperatures climb above 100 degrees, again. 

The record high temperature for Saturday (at Dulles International Airport) is 101, most recently set in 2010. The record for Sunday is 100, according to the National Weather Service.

There is also a “code red” air quality alert for Saturday. "Air quality is forecast to be in the unhealthy range which means everyone should avoid prolonged or heavy exertion outdoors. If you must spend long periods of time outside, continuously hydrate and take breaks in an air-conditioned environment," the Capital Weather Gang reported Friday afternoon.

Sunday’s temperatures could also reach 100, but relief will come late in the day with the arrival of a long-awaited cold front that could bring thunderstorms.

If the thunderstorms are severe enough, it could mean a slight setback for Dominion Virginia Power, which has worked round-the-clock this week to restore power to 1 million residents who lost power in the June 29 derecho.

The Fairfax County Health Department is encouraging people to:

• Limit outdoor activities.
• Seek shelter in air-conditioned places like libraries, malls, movie theaters or local cooling centers.
• Keep hydrated (avoid caffeine and alcohol, both of which can dehydrate).
• Take special care of children, elderly people and pets — all of whom may be more susceptible to heat-related illnesses.

More information is available on the Fairfax County emergency blog and by watching the video in the media box above for additional tips.