Richmond, Virginia – Central and southern Virginia are under an Extreme Heat Warning through Wednesday evening, as heat index values could climb as high as 110°F in the Piedmont and Southside regions. The dangerous heat and humidity are expected to affect daily life and pose serious health risks.
The National Weather Service in Wakefield has placed cities like Richmond, Farmville, Petersburg, and South Hill under an official heat warning. As temperatures soar and humidity remains high, even healthy people could experience heat-related illness if they don’t take proper precautions.
Where the Heat Will Be Worst
Afternoon hours will be especially dangerous in cities such as Louisa, Tappahannock, Emporia, and Franklin. Temperatures will feel significantly hotter due to the humidity, with conditions peaking between 2 p.m. and 6 p.m.
Meanwhile, Maryland and North Carolina beaches remain under a Heat Advisory, with heat index values just below 110°F. Though slightly less extreme, the risk for heat exhaustion is still very real in these areas.
What You Should Do to Stay Safe
Health officials are urging everyone in affected areas to take heat safety seriously:
Drink water often, even if you’re not thirsty
Avoid intense outdoor activities, especially in the afternoon
Take frequent breaks in cool or shaded areas
Stay in air-conditioned spaces whenever possible
If you work outside, the NWS recommends taking a 45 to 60-minute break each hour during the hottest parts of the day. This can help prevent heat stroke, which can set in quickly in these extreme conditions.
Why This Heat Wave Is a Big Deal
This is one of the most widespread early-summer heat waves Virginia has seen in recent years. The combination of high humidity and extreme temperatures makes the heat particularly dangerous. Emergency services across the region are preparing for potential increases in heat-related emergencies.
Warning in Effect Through Wednesday Evening
The Extreme Heat Warning remains in place through Wednesday evening, but the situation could change if the heat wave continues or gets worse. More updates are expected from the NWS in the coming days.