Due to the forecasted extreme temperatures, both Madison and Orange counties are opening cooling shelters this week.
According to the National Weather Service, Virginia is expected to experience a heatwave from Wednesday, July 1 through Sunday, July 5 with the highest temperatures expected Thursday through Saturday. Heat index values could exceed 110 degrees in some locations.
“As Virginia expects record-breaking high temperatures leading up to and throughout the holiday weekend, the safety of all our neighbors is my highest priority,” Governor Abigail Spanberger said. “I am asking Virginians to do all you can to keep yourself and your loved ones safe. Stay hydrated, stay cool, and check on your neighbors.”
Locally, Madison County is opening its department of social services office, located at 101 S. Main Street in the Town of Madison, as a cooling shelter. It will be open from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. July 1-2. Snacks and bottled water will be available.
In Orange County, the social services department lobby, located at 146 North Madison Road, Suite 201, Orange, will be open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. July 1-2. Residents can sit comfortably in the air conditioning. In addition, water and information on cooling assistance programs will be available. Pets are not allowed. Should anyone need heat relief on Friday, contact the non-emergency dispatch number at (540) 672-1234 and ask for the on-call family services specialist. The Orange County Airport Terminal, located at 11275 Aviation Way, Orange, will be open as a cooling station July 4, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
The Virginia Department of Health is encouraging Virginians to stay hydrated by drinking water and avoiding alcohol, caffeinated or sugary drinks; wear lightweight, light-colored clothing and apply sunscreen to exposed skin; limit physical activity especially in the middle of the day; ensure children and pets are not left in vehicles and check on neighbors. Those ages 65 and older are particularly vulnerable to heat-related illnesses and complications.
