What does a heat wave mean in Washington DC and the DMV region?
A dangerous heat wave is coming to the Washington DC region next week, bringing temperatures that are expected to exceed 100 degrees during 4th of July week.
By mid-week, DC temperatures could reach 100 degrees - and they're expected to stay there through Friday, July 3, according to Accuweather.com. Even next Saturday, as tens of thousands will congregate on the National Mall for 4th of July fireworks, it could feel as if it's 102 degrees.
But what does a heat wave mean in the capital, and how should you prepare?
Here's what to know.
What does a heat wave mean in Washington DC?
A heat wave is described "an extended period of unusually high temperatures" that exceed 95 temperatures, typically bringing high humidity.
It's exactly what could happen in DC next week, as the District is excepted to receive four straight days of at least 95-degree weather, including three days above 100.
The National Weather Service says there is a "significant heat risk" next week, with the humidity resulting in heat indices of at least 105 degrees from Wednesday to Friday.
"Extreme heat is a dangerous hazard that can pose serious health risks to people," DC officials say as part of their Extreme Heat Adaptation Strategy. "Heat can also cause significant infrastructural and economic challenges. While hot weather may seem like just an inconvenience to some, it can be deadly."
Dangerous heat has become increasingly more common in the District, as the area is experiencing longer summers and more humid conditions than it previously did.
How should you prepare for a heat wave in Washington DC?
Before a heat wave, residents should stock up on extra supplies they may need, drink plenty of water, prepare an insulated cooler and charge electronic devices in case of an emergency, officials say.
It's also important to prepare your home, including checking your air conditioner to ensure it's working, sealing cracks in windows and doors, as well as familiarizing yourself with neighbors who may be most susceptible to harmful effects of excessive heat.
Older adults and young children are most sensitive to extreme heat, as are people who are pregnant, overweight, have disabilities or chronic illnesses.
DC officials also encourage residents to learn the signs of excessive exposure.
Those experiencing heat exhaustion may have heavy sweating, weakness and fatigue, a fast and weak pulse, cold chills, nausea and dizziness. Heat stroke victims could have more worrisome symptoms, including high body temperature, altered mental state, confusion, a fast and stroke pulse and even loss of consciousness.
Resting in shade or an conditioned place, drinking water and removing extra clothing are ways to cool down in the heat.
DC also has cooling centers around the city that open when it's at least 95 degrees.
For more tips on how to beat the heat in DC, visit https://ready.dc.gov/pages/hazard-heat-during.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: What does a heat wave mean in Washington DC and the DMV region?
Reporting by Mike Stunson, USA TODAY NETWORK / USA TODAY
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
Copyright Reuters or USA Today Network via Reuters Connect
This story was originally published June 26, 2026 at 2:38 PM.