Legend has it that in earlier times, foreign diplomats posted to the capital of the United States received hardship pay for enduring Washington's hot, humid, muggy summers. In those days, all activity in the nation's capital ceased during the month of August, and people escaped to the surrounding countryside. Washington's summer weather hasn't changed since those early days. However, the city's response to summer weather has changed significantly.
Four District Cooling Centers will be activated during weekdays from 12 pm - 6 pm when the ambient temperature reaches 95 degrees. The Street Showers Program will be implemented upon the notification that the ambient temperature has reached 95 degrees and will remain operational until 6 pm (Street Showers will begin with DC Public Schools summer dismissal).
HSEMA in conjunction with the Department of Health will also disseminate emergency public service information to the public via the DC webpage at dc.gov or 72hours.dc.gov and the 311 call center.
Key components of the city's heat plan include:
More information on health facts and beating the heat:
