Heat Advisory Today: Dangerous Heat Index Through Evening

TL;DR: The National Weather Service has issued a Heat Advisory for Chesterfield County from 11 AM to 8 PM today with dangerous heat index values of 105 to 108 degrees.

The story

The National Weather Service has issued a Heat Advisory for Chesterfield County and surrounding portions of central, east-central, eastern, north-central, south-central, and southeast Virginia from 11 AM to 8 PM today, July 18, 2026. Heat index values are expected to reach 105 to 108 degrees, combining high temperatures with elevated humidity to create dangerous conditions for outdoor exposure and exertion.

Heat-related illnesses increase significantly during extreme heat and high humidity events. The National Weather Service advises residents to start drinking water before feeling thirsty, stay in air-conditioned spaces, and avoid prolonged sun exposure during the advisory period. Residents should check on older adults, people who live alone, and those with medical conditions to ensure they have access to air conditioning and adequate fluids.

Chesterfield County recommends limiting outdoor activity during peak heat hours and knowing the location of nearby cooling centers or air-conditioned public facilities. Pets should be brought indoors when possible or provided with shade and fresh water, with outdoor walks limited to cooler times of day. If anyone experiences signs of heat stroke, the county advises moving them to a cool location and calling 911 immediately.

The advisory extends through this evening, with conditions expected to improve tomorrow as heat index values decline by a few degrees, though many areas will remain near or above 90 degrees with heat index values of 95 to 100 degrees expected for Sunday.

Key players

• National Weather Service: Issued the Heat Advisory alert
• Chesterfield County government: Providing safety guidance and cooling resources to residents

Key dates

• 2026-07-18: Heat Advisory in effect 11 AM to 8 PM with heat index 105-108 degrees

Why it matters: Extreme heat combined with high humidity poses a serious health risk, especially for elderly residents, young children, and those with chronic health conditions. Knowing the location of cooling centers and following basic heat safety steps can prevent heat-related illness during today's dangerous conditions.

Places

• Chesterfield County
• Central Virginia

Related links

• National Weather Service Heat Safety
• Chesterfield County Storm Information
• National Weather Service HeatRisk

Read the original at NWS Weather Alerts →

Sources

• National Weather Service Alert
• WTVR Weather Forecast
• National Weather Service Chesterfield County
• Chesterfield County Storm Information
• Weather.gov Heat Safety