NWS warns Heat Illnesses are Possible Due to Excessive Heat and Humidity

The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a heat advisory, in effect in Prince George's County and other parts of the region from noon to 8 p.m. Tuesday. Although predicting highs in the mid 90s, NWS warns the heat index values will climb from 100 to 105.

Heat illnesses are possible due to the temperatures and humidity, NWS warns, and says excessive heat is expected.

The elderly, young children and pets are most at risk according to NWS, which says to never leave children or pets in a car, as temperatures inside a vehicle can exceed 130 degrees in a matter of minutes.

NWS advises checking up on relatives and neighbors and drinking plenty of fluids, particularly water and sports drinks.

For those who have to be outside, NWS advises taking frequent breaks in the shade during the afternoon sun and spending time in an air-conditioned room during the hottest part of the day.

A code orange air quality alert is also in effect for Tuesday, issued by the Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments in Association with other environment departments, including the Maryland Department of the Environment, which state the air pollution concentration within the region may become unhealthy for children, elderly, asthma sufferers, those with heart or lung diseases and other sensitive groups -- and that the effects can be minimized by avoiding strenuous activity or exercise outdoors.