Extreme Heat Alert Activated, Plan Ahead for Several Days of Dangerously Hot Temperatures
Wednesday, July 1, 2026
With Extreme Heat on the Way, Residents and Visitors Urged to Drink Water, Dress for the Heat, Stay Cool, and Look Out for Vulnerable Neighbors
(Washington, DC) – Today, Mayor Muriel Bowser is urging residents and visitors to prepare for a heatwave expected to bring triple-digit temperatures to the District beginning today, Wednesday, July 1, and continuing through the Fourth of July holiday weekend. Due to the anticipated high temperatures and humidity levels, Mayor Bowser has activated an Extreme Heat Alert for Wednesday, July 1 through Sunday, July 5, with the possibility of an extension or revision dependent on the forecast. With outdoor gatherings planned across the region over the holiday weekend, residents and visitors should prepare for prolonged heat exposure, drink lots of water – even before feeling thirsty, take frequent breaks in air-conditioned spaces or the shade, and sign up for free weather updates at alert.dc.gov.
The National Weather Service is forecasting daily high temperatures that could exceed 100 degrees at times. When combined with high humidity levels, the heat index is expected to exceed 105 degrees for the next four days, reaching as high as 109 degrees at times. Overnight temperatures are expected to remain above 75 degrees, above the average for this time of year.
When the heat index exceeds 105°F, the District issues an Extreme Heat Alert and deploys additional resources to protect public health. High heat and humidity can quickly lead to heat exhaustion or heat stroke, especially for older adults, young children, people with chronic medical conditions, outdoor workers, and anyone spending extended time outside. Anyone spending extended time outdoors, including at holiday events, should take the heat seriously regardless of how they feel in the moment. Avoid strenuous outdoor activity, especially between 11 am and 4 pm.
Important steps residents and visitors can take to stay safe during extreme heat are:
Drink plenty of water. Increase your fluid intake throughout the day, even if you do not feel thirsty. Avoid alcohol, caffeinated beverages, and drinks with large amounts of sugar, which can contribute to dehydration.
Dress for the heat. Wear lightweight, loose-fitting, light-colored clothing, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunscreen with SPF 15 or higher when spending time outdoors.
Stay cool. Limit time outdoors whenever possible – especially in the afternoon and early evening, when temperatures are highest – and go to air-conditioned spaces or shade to cool down. Visit heat.dc.gov for a list of District cooling centers.
Residents are also encouraged to check on family members, neighbors, and friends who may be especially vulnerable to extreme heat, including older adults, young children, people with disabilities, and individuals with chronic medical conditions or other access and functional needs.
If you are concerned about neighbors experiencing homelessness, or to request free, accessible transportation to a low-barrier shelter or day center, call the Shelter Hotline at 202-399-7093 or dial 311.
Don’t ever leave kids or pets alone in cars because the temperature inside a car can rise very quickly.
If you see an animal left outside or in a vehicle on a hot day, call the Brandywine Valley SPCA at 202-888-PETS.