D.C. braces for extreme humidity, heat — and high bills
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Welcome to the heat dome — the DMV is bracing for extended periods of extreme temperatures and humidity, plus rising utility costs.
Why it matters: Take your usual swampy D.C. summer and dial it up to "steam room."
The big picture: Extreme humidity may impact D.C. and 40 states in the coming weeks, according to the Washington Post, with temperatures above 90 degrees affecting millions.
- Rising ocean temperatures in the Gulf and Atlantic are expected to create extra-steamy conditions here and in the eastern states.
Threat level: High. A heat alert is in effect through Thursday morning.
- The daytime heat index is expected to be around 95°F, and in the 80s at night. Hydrate and find cooling centers.
- Temperatures may feel particularly oppressive in city neighborhoods that suffer from the urban heat island effect.
Meanwhile, humidity is "extreme"-rated Thursday, per the Post, with possible severe storms.
- We may get some relief Friday, but high humidity is expected to return over the weekend, plus extended heat next week.
Zoom in: Your utility bill may spike, too. Pepco electricity supply rates just jumped June 1 for D.C. and Maryland customers — an average $17 monthly hike, Pepco reps tell Axios.
- Pepco expects higher-than-average utility bills due to the heat wave, similar to last winter when extreme cold led to skyrocketing costs.
- The company offers some tips and, in Maryland, free energy assessments to keep costs down.
Between the lines: It's bad timing with outdoor Juneteenth events planned for Thursday and the weekend, and the 33rd annual Giant BBQ Battle firing up grills on Pennsylvania Avenue.
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