Update 2:30 p.m.
A severe thunderstorm watch has been issued for the Potomac Communities until 10 p.m.
The National Weather Service has forecasted strong storms to move through the region this afternoon and tonight. Some may contain strong winds, heavy downpours and large hail.
Original Post 1: 30 p.m.
This afternoon’s hot temperatures should give way to a round of severe thunderstorms this afternoon.
A heat advisory remains in effect for the Washington area until 8 p.m., but those thunderstorms could begin moving through the area this afternoon and lasting through tonight.
Some of them could contain heavy downpours, high winds and large hail, according to the National Weather Service.
The temperature at Reagan Washington National Airport at 1:30 p.m. was 94 degrees, but heat index values made it feel like 100 or more degrees outside.
Despite the hotter than normal temperatures, officials in Prince William County say they have not responded to a higher than normal amount of calls for people suffering heat exhaustion.
But that doesn’t mean the hot weather doesn’t take a toll on the body.
Stafford County Department of Fire and Rescue spokesman Mark Doyle says people should drink more water in this hot weather, and not to wait until your body feels thirsty. He also warned against drinking alcohol or sugary drinks, and very cold drinks as they may cause stomach cramps.
If without air conditioning and using a fan, fans may not prevent heat-related illness, said Doyle.
Taking a cold shower or bath, or moving in a place that has air conditioning is a better way to cool off.
It’s also important to never leave any person or a pet in a closed, parked car, he added.
Those who must venture outside should limit their activity, keep to shaded areas and wear protective sunscreen with an SPF rating of 15 or higher, wear a brimmed hat and sunglasses to add further protection from the sun.
