Heat wave arrives in DC: Temperatures to near triple digits

WASHINGTON - Scorching temperatures are setting in over the District as a heat wave sweeps through the region.

Highs were expected to reach 96 degrees on Tuesday as humidity combined with the extreme heat to create some potentially dangerous conditions.

July heat waves are of course nothing new, the month typically being the city's hottest on average. As the National Weather Service officially defines a "heat wave" as three days or more in a row of temperatures above 90 degrees, the next several days will officially be the third one of the year.

June 11 through June 14 was the first one, featuring the hottest temperatures seen this summer so far with two days at 95 degrees, while the second heat wave between June 29 and July 4 featured the longest stretch of heat with six days in a row above 90 degrees.

While not expected to be the longest, the upcoming heat wave may be the hottest so far seen this summer. Temperatures at least have the opportunity (with enough sunshine) to shoot for the triple digits during the midweek.

Although our current forecast keeps temperatures just shy of this mark, temperatures may still flirt with record levels as we head through the middle of this week. So, regardless of whether or not the mercury ever does hit the 100 degree mark, it will most certainly feel that way with plenty of humidity in place.

Several models suggest the heat index values could approach 105 degrees at times, which would put the region in contention for potentially their first heat advisory of the summer. Heat can be a killer, so it's important to make sure you take the proper precautions to keep yourself and your loved ones cool.

Take frequent breaks if you have to be out in the sun, drink plenty of water, no leaving pets or children in cars, etc. The District's Heat Emergency plan will be in full effect starting tomorrow, meaning cooling stations will be open across the city. Check here to see if there is one near you where you can stop by and keep yourself cool.

The D.C. Department of Parks and Recreation is also reminding residents to take advantage of the spray parks scattered throughout the city. They typically operate seven days a week, from 9 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. from Memorial Day to Labor Day. Click here for more detailed information about the spray parks.