The National Weather Service reports the temperature will be in the 90's throughout the weekend with heat indexes as high as 98 degrees. The Heat Emergency Plan has been activated. Multiple DC Government agencies are coordinating and executing a response.  

 

As temperatures rise, The District of Columbia of Health (DOH), the District of Columbia Fire and Emergency Medical Services Department and DC Water and others urge those in the District to beat the heat without tampering with fire hydrants. Unauthorized hydrant use can hamper firefighting, damage the water system and cause injury. It can also flood streets, creating traffic dangers and it can lower the water pressure for everyone on the block. 

 

Residents and visitors can keep cool by staying in shade or air conditioning and drinking plenty of water. When the temperature or heat index reaches 95, residents are encouraged to take extra precautions against the heat. If they do not live in an air-conditioned building, they may take refuge at a District swimming pool, cooling center, recreation facility, senior center or other air-conditioned building. More information, and locations, can be found at hsema.dc.gov or by calling 311.

 

DOH will assess the medical impact of the heat conditions and identify/inform the public of appropriate health precautions and monitor hospital emergency room admisions related to heat illnesses. DOH will provide HSEMA information related to heat prevention with protective actions to the general public most notably those with health and medical issues.