Shock forecast: NOAA predicts heat index of 116 °F in Washington, D.C., Friday, July 22, 2011 ( and 118 °F for Richmond, VA)

Shock forecast: NOAA predicts heat index of 116 in Washington, D.C., Friday

by Jason Samenow, Capital Weather Gang, Washington Post, July 19, 2011

Peak heat index forecast Friday, July 22. ( NOAA’s Hydrometeorological Prediction Center )NOAA has upped its peak heat index prediction for D.C. Friday to a stunning, sweltering 116 °F. Remarkably, it predicts there is a 90% chance it will reach at least 110° and a 100% chance of at least 105°. Earlier today,NOAA was predicting a maximum heat index of 109°, Friday.

And poor Richmond, Va.! NOAA projects its heat index will soar to a stifling 118 degrees.

The picture above says it all. Just look at how much of the country is poised to reach heat index values of at least 100. (Remember that the heat index measures not the actual air temperature, but rather what it “feels like” due to the added influence of humidity).

Related: Heat wave and hot weather guide

http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/capital-weather-gang/post/shock-forecast-noaa-predicts-heat-index-of-116-in-washington-dc-friday/2011/07/19/gIQAB3kWOI_blog.html