WASHINGTON, DC — Dangerous heat is continuing across the Washington area on Friday as the region heads into a large Fourth of July weekend. An extreme heat warning remains in place for D.C., Maryland and Northern Virginia, with temperatures expected to reach 103 degrees and heat index values climbing as high as 114 in Waldorf.
Thursday already set a record in the city, where the temperature reached 102 degrees and broke the mark for the hottest July 2 on record. Storm Team4 Chief Meteorologist Doug Kammerer said the previous record dated back to 1898.
Friday Stays Mostly Dry
High pressure is helping keep most of the region quiet for much of Friday, even as it locks in the heat. Forecasters said an isolated afternoon storm is possible, but it is not expected to be widespread.
The main concern remains the combination of intense sun, lingering overnight warmth and already elevated temperatures, which can raise the risk of heat-related illness.
Saturday Brings The First Real Storm Chance
Conditions are expected to change on Saturday, when temperatures move back above 100 degrees and crowds gather for Independence Day events. The day should begin dry, but showers and thunderstorms are likely between 3 p.m. and 7 p.m…