How to stay safe during a heat wave

Jun 22, 2025 - 18:25

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RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) -- As dangerous heat made its way to the Greater Richmond Region on Sunday, just as extreme temperatures rise across the nation, it's important to know how to keep you and your loved ones safe this summer.

The prolonged heat wave will persist into the following week, and Our StormTracker8 team says that this heat could potentially last until the Fourth of July.

How to prepare for the upcoming heat wave

Due to a heat index of nearly 115, overtaking Central Virginia, according to StormTracker8 Chief Meteorologist Matt DiNardo, the Virginia Department of Emergency Management (VDEM) is sharing for how you should stay safe during this heat wave.

The following are tips from the department that you should follow to stay safe during this upcoming heat wave.

Never leave a child, adult, or animal alone inside a vehicle on a warm day.
Find places with air conditioning. Libraries, shopping malls, and community centers can provide a cool place to take a break from the heat.
If you’re outside, find shade. Wear a hat wide enough to protect your face.
Wear loose, lightweight, light-colored clothing.
Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated. If you or someone you care for is on a special diet, ask a doctor how best to accommodate it.
Do not use electric fans when the temperature outside is more than 95 degrees, as this could increase the risk of heat-related illness. Fans create air flow and a false sense of comfort but do not reduce body temperature.
Avoid high-energy activities.
Check yourself, family members, and neighbors for signs of heat-related illness.

Heat indexes throughout the next seven days will surpass 100 degrees, even making their way into the 110s, with the department expecting the prolonged heat wave beginning Sunday will peak Monday to Wednesday, with heat index values of surpassing 105 degrees Monday and Wednesday, per a social post.

See the graphic from the team below.