Independence Day To Be Hot, Another Heat Wave On The Way

WASHINGTON - If you're planning to spend most of Independence Day outside, make sure to pack plenty of water, and plenty of sun screen because it is going to be hot and sunny.
ABC 7 Meteorologist says that temperatures could get into the mid 90s today, and it'll be a bit more humid today than it has been the past few days.

"Lots of sunshine in the forecast, not only for this morning, but for the remainder of the afternoon," says Rudin.

Rudin says things will cool down to the mid-80s by the time fireworks start shooting off.

If you like the heat, you'll be getting plenty more of it in the coming days.

"It looks like we're going into a pattern similar to what we had in June, and wow, it was hot in June," says Rudin.

Two new records for heat were set in June, and Rudin says Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday all have the potential to set new records.

You can find a list of fireworks happening around the area here, and our guide to seeing fireworks on the National Mall here.

Here are some tips to stay cool in the heat:

Wear lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing;
Wear a hat to shield yourself from the sun;
Use sunscreen;
Drink lots of water. Remember that caffeinated beverages can increase the rate of water loss in your body, increasing your risk of heat exhaustion or stroke;
Hang out in the air conditioning or shade;
Don't leave children or pets in the car.
Too much time in the hot weather can make you sick. Here's what the American Red Cross offers up as advice to recognize and treat heat exhaustion and heat stroke.

Signs of Heat Exhaustion

Normal body temperature;
May have cool, moist, pale or flushed skin;
Heavy sweating;
Headache;
Nausea or vomiting;
Dizziness;
Exhaustion.
What to do about heat exhaustion:

Get the person out of the heat and into a cooler place.
Apply cool, wet cloths.
Give a half glass of cool water every 15 minutes.
Signs of Heat Stroke

Body temperature as high as 105 degrees;
Skin that's red and hot;
Changes in consciousness;
Rapid, weak pulse;
Rapid, shallow breathing.
What to do about heat stroke:

Help is needed fast.
Move the person to a cooler place.
Quickly cool the body.
Watch for signals of breathing problems.

Source