Heat Advisory, Air Quality Alert Issued in PG County

The National Weather Service has issued a heat advisory for much of Maryland, including Prince George’s County, beginning at noon Monday and lasting until 8 p.m.

Heat index values in parts of the region will rise to as high as 109 degrees when temperatures hit the upper 90s this afternoon, warranting the advisory. The high temperature in the Bowie area should hit 95 degrees according to Monday’s forecast, and “feels like” temperature by 4 p.m. should be 104 degrees.

“A heat advisory means that a period of high temperatures is expected,” stated the NWS. “The combination of high temperatures and high humidity will create a situation in which heat illnesses are possible.”

The NWS warns that those without air conditioning or who will be outdoors for long stretches of time could be especially vulnerable to heat-related illness. Those who need to be outdoors on Monday are advised to limit those activities to the early morning or evening hours to avoid the severe heat.

“Know the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Wear light and loose fitting clothing when possible and drink plenty of water,” said the NWS. “To reduce risk during outdoor work, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration recommends scheduling frequent rest breaks in shaded or air-conditioned environments. Anyone overcome by heat should be moved to a cool and shaded location.”

The NWS also issued a code orange air quality alert throughout much of Maryland for Monday.

“A code orange air quality alert means that air pollution concentrations within the region may become unhealthy for sensitive groups,” said the NWS. “Sensitive groups include children; people suffering from asthma, heart disease or other lung diseases; and the elderly. The effects of air pollution can be minimized by avoiding strenuous activity or exercise outdoors.”