County to operate cooling centers through Wednesday

The National Weather Service has issued a forecast for excessive heat and humidity for Loudoun County and the region for the next several days. The weather service is forecasting dangerously hot conditions with heat index values of up to 105 degrees possible in the afternoons.

Loudoun County Cooling Centers

Certain county facilities, including Loudoun County Public Library branches, Loudoun County community centers and recreation centers, will serve as designated cooling centers through Wednesday, July 10. During normal business hours, the facilities will provide air conditioning, water and a place to sit for residents who may need relief from the heat. In addition, the Loudoun County Animal Shelter will operate as a pet-friendly facility for residents who are seeking relief from the heat for their companion animals.

Homeless Services Center

In response to the excessive heat, the Loudoun Homeless Services Center, 19520 Meadowview Court in Leesburg, will be extending its drop-in hours in the evening. From today, Monday, July 8, through Saturday, July 13, the center will be open from 8:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. The center will also be providing cold water to those seeking relief from the extreme weather.

Guard Against Heat-Related Illness

The combination of hot temperatures and high humidity may cause heat illnesses to occur. In addition to avoid being outside for long periods of time, Loudoun County officials remind residents to take other precautions to prevent heat illnesses.

• Hydrate: Drink plenty of water.
  
• If you have to go outside, wear lightweight, light-colored clothing and avoid strenuous activities.
  
• Do not leave children or pets in cars.
  
• Monitor your animals frequently to ensure that they are not suffering. The Loudoun County Department of Animal Services offers useful information on protecting your pets from the heat.
  
• Check on your neighbors. Anyone can suffer from heat-related illness, but people aged 65 and older and very young children are more susceptible to the effects of high heat and humidity.
  
• Know the forecast: Get updated weather information online from the National Weather Service (NWS) at weather.gov/lwx and on the NWS Facebook and Twitter. You may also sign up for weather alerts through Alert Loudoun.

More information about staying safe in excessive heat is online at loudoun.gov/heat.