Heat index could reach 104 Saturday, National Weather Service says

Sun shines through the high grass by the Staunton Public Library on Saturday, June 22, 2024.
Sun shines through the high grass by the Staunton Public Library on Saturday, June 22, 2024.

The National Weather Service issued a heat advisory Saturday morning as temperatures are expected to soar in to the mid-90s by early afternoon.

The mix of high temperatures and humidity will result in heat index values up to 104 degrees.

The heat advisory goes into effect 11:00 a.m. Saturday until 8:00 p.m.

Evening temperatures in the mid to lower 70s will compound heat stress on those without air conditioning, the advisory warns.

What's the best thing to do? Stay inside in an air-conditioned room, says the NWS. Drink fluids and stay out of the sun as much as you can if you have be outside.

On days of extreme heat, it's important to check on friends and relatives, and take care that young children and pets are not left unattended in vehicles. Wear lightweight and loose fitting clothing and if you must work outside, take frequent rest and hydration breaks in shaded or air-conditioned environments, the advisory warns.

This is the first of several days of expected extreme heat. The National Weather Service anticipates the potential for damaging thunderstorms on Sunday afternoon into Sunday night across a wide area, with the chances of damaging wind gusts.

The sun shines through a maple tree near the Staunton Public Library on Saturday morning, June 22, 2024. A heat advisory warns the heat index may reach 104.
The sun shines through a maple tree near the Staunton Public Library on Saturday morning, June 22, 2024. A heat advisory warns the heat index may reach 104.

This article originally appeared on Staunton News Leader: Oppressive heat and humidity trigger heat advisory Saturday