National Weather Service issues warning for Central, Southside VA

It is about to get very warm across the region over the next two days. The National Weather Service (NWS) out of Wakefield has issued a warning, as the heat index could hit 105 degrees Fahrenheit at times Wednesday and Thursday.

“Heat indexes will approach 105 (degrees Fahrenheit),” the NWS advisory said. “Please limit time outdoors and drink water even when you don’t feel thirsty. Plan accordingly for kids in school sports and pets who are outside.”

Fortunately most outdoor events planned for tonight won’t take place. Prince Edward County Public Schools has canceled all after-school activities set for today. Buckingham County has canceled its JV football game against Appomattox tonight. And the Cumberland junior varsity game was canceled due to another odd circumstance, as there were too many injured players on the William Campbell team.

Also, at least one school district will be cutting classes short as a result of the heat. Buckingham County Public Schools has announced all buildings will close at 12:30 p.m. today.

But in terms of the heat index, just a quick reminder. We’re not just talking about the temperature, which is supposed to be hot enough, around 95 to 97 degrees. The heat index is what the temperature feels like to the human body when you combine it with the humidity. Basically, it’s not a great time for anyone to be outside or in the heat for extended periods over the next two days. That’s especially true for the elderly and anyone suffering from chronic illness.

“The amount of heat will make heat exhaustion more likely, with heat stroke possible,” NWS officials said in the advisory. “With this heat, be prepared to take 15-30 minute breaks if outdoors.”

One positive, however, is that this heatwave won’t last for long. NWS forecasters expect showers and storms Thursday night, along with a backdoor cold front.

National Weather Service warns of illness

In other words, it can be dangerous for people to be outside for too long. NWS officials also advise people to know the signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Heat exhaustion has symptoms of dizziness, thirst, heavy sweating, nausea and general weakness. Heat stroke adds confusion. In either case, get out of the sun and indoors if possible. Find some water to drink and loosen clothes.

In other words, it can be dangerous for people to be outside for too long. To help residents, libraries across the region can be used as cooling centers.

Those cooling centers will be at:

Buckingham County

• Central Virginia Regional Library
  16266 N. James Madison Highway, Dillwyn
  Cooling Center will be open today from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. today and Thursday.

Cumberland County

• Cumberland Library
  1539 Anderson Highway
  Cooling Center will be open from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. today and Thursday.

Town of Farmville

• Farmville-Prince Edward Community Library
  1303 W. 3rd Street
  The Cooling Center will be open Saturday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. today and Thursday.

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