Fairfax County Activates Heat Plan for Sunday, July 27

What’s Happening

Fairfax County has activated its official heat response plan for Sunday, July 27, as dangerous heat index values are expected across the region. The announcement was made via a Facebook post earlier today.

County Statement

Emergency Alert Issued

Separately, the Fairfax County Department of Emergency Management and Security posted on X that a Heat Advisory has been issued for Sunday, July 27:

Cooling Centers Available

Designated county facilities will serve as Cooling Centers during their normal operating hours. These include:

• Libraries
• Community Centers
• REC Centers
• Human Services Regional Offices
• Homeless Shelters (for those experiencing homelessness)

Fairfax County also recommends indoor public locations like malls or theaters for temporary relief. Residents are encouraged to check for possible closures before visiting, as some facilities may face HVAC disruptions.

Understanding Heat Alerts

The county’s heat plan is activated when the National Weather Service issues any of the following:

• Heat Advisory: Index of 105–109°F expected in next 12–24 hours
• Extreme Heat Watch: Index of 110°F or higher possible in 24–48 hours
• Extreme Heat Warning: Index of 110°F or higher expected in next 12–24 hours

Tips to Stay Safe

• Drink water often, even if not thirsty.
• Avoid outdoor work and strenuous activity.
• Visit indoor, air-conditioned places.
• Recognize heat-related illness signs—heat stroke is an emergency.
• Check on vulnerable individuals like elderly neighbors or people with medical conditions.
• Never leave children, elderly adults, or pets in vehicles.
• Don’t rely on fans alone—they circulate air but don’t cool the body.

Resources and Transit

To help residents access Cooling Centers, the Fairfax Connector BusTracker is available for public transportation planning.

For complete safety resources and heat-related guidance, visit the official Fairfax County Extreme Heat Resources Page.

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