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A “complex weather day” is ahead for Western Tidewater.

That’s how the National Weather Service’s Wakefield office described the combination of heat and potential severe storms in the region.

A heat advisory is in effect until 7 p.m. today. While high temperatures in the upper 80s will be slightly cooler than the low to mid 90s experienced on Monday, oppressive humidity will cause the heat index, or “feels like” temperature, to be 107.

Meantime, severe storms moving southeast could bring “damaging wind, heavy rainfall and large hail,” forecasters say.

“Confidence in exact timing is low, but severe storms could occur at any time from late morning through the afternoon,” the weather service said, noting that afternoon activity is more likely.
NWS categorized the threat level as 2 on a scale of 1 to 5, with 5 being the greatest probability.

To beat the heat, NWS advises people to “drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air-conditioned room and stay out of the sun.”

“Check up on relatives and neighbors,” NWS advised. “Young children and pets should never be left unattended in vehicles under any circumstances. Take extra precautions if you work or spend time outside. When possible, reschedule strenuous activities to early morning or evening. Know the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. We lightweight and loose-fitting clothing when possible.”