Record-threatening heat to hit Richmond this week
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A major heat wave is headed toward Richmond this week — and possibly longer.
Why it matters: The heat is threatening to break records across the U.S., and heightening health risks since people are not yet accustomed to high temperatures this time of the year.
Driving the news: Temps are forecast to reach 91°F Monday, but the hot, humid weather isn't done with us yet, per the National Weather Service (NWS).
- The high this week isn't dropping below 91°F. Not once.
- So far, it's peaking at 100°F on Sunday — the highest temp of the year.
- With rising humidity, parts of the Richmond area could feel above that.
Zoom in: It'll likely be hotter in lower-income neighborhoods that have fewer trees and residents who may not have AC, which can face an up to 16°F difference from the city's more shaded, affluent areas at peak heat.
- Richmond has two cooling stations with water and AC at 900 E. Marshall St. and 4100 Hull St. from 11am-6pm Monday through Saturday this week, per NBC12.
- All GRTC buses, which are fare free, have AC, too.
The big picture: A large area of high pressure, also known as a heat dome, is building over much of the central and eastern half of the country this week, computer models and NWS forecasts show.
- Highs are forecast to be well into the 90s and potentially in the low 100s in the South and possibly the Mid-Atlantic, especially between June 17-20.
- 1 hot fact: The Richmond area's highest temp recorded in June was 104°F in 1952.
What's next: The risk of excessive heat is predicted to last until June 26 for most of the East Coast.
Go deeper: Virginians might need to brace for a long, hot summer.