National Weather Service warns of excessive heat beginning Sunday, "extreme risk" by Wednesday
Excessive heat is expected to plague the Wheeling area beginning Sunday, with the risk jumping to "extreme" by Wednesday. Take action now to protect yourself and others.
Wheeling, W.Va. – The National Weather Service Pittsburgh, Pa., office has issued a statement encompassing the Northern Panhandle suggesting high confidence that a “prolonged, potentially dangerous period of excessive heat” will begin Sunday and continue through the week. The statement goes on to warn of “moderate to major heat-related impacts” particularly in “traditionally warmer locations like valleys and urban centers.”

Daytime highs are predicted to stay above 90° and nighttime lows above 70° for at least seven days straight. Heat indexes are likely to rise above 100°. Beginning Sunday, The NWS predicts the Wheeling area to be an “moderate risk” for heat-related impacts, rising to “major risk” Monday, and “extreme risk” –the highest risk level–by Wednesday.
Earth continues to break heat-related records in recent years, with 2023 ranking as the hottest year since records began in 1850. Every year since 2015 has been hotter than any previous year, and the top ten warmest years since 1850 are the years 2014-2023. As the climate warms, so does the risk for excessive heat.

Excessive heat causes, on average, more deaths in the United States than any other weather-related incident. An Associated Press analysis of Centers for Disease Control and Prevention data showed more than 2300 deaths in 2023 where the effects of excessive heat were mentioned as a direct or indirect cause of death.
Issues associated with excessive heat can be serious and potentially fatal. A mild case of heat-related illnesses can manifest in headaches, dizziness, or nausea. Severe symptoms include heat stroke, heart attack, kidney failure, and even death.
Everyone is at risk of heat-related illness, but those who work outdoors, work involving heavy equipment, and the elderly are at a specifically high risk. With excessive heat in the forecast, it is important people act now to protect themselves and others.
Reducing time spent outdoors or in direct sunlight and drinking water regularly are the two most effective ways to avoid heat-related illness. If you have to spend time outdoors, wear light-colored, loose fitting clothing and take frequent breaks.
Ensure you have access to an air-conditioned space. If you know someone who lacks the ability to cool their home, or if power is lost during a period of excessive heat, check on family, friends, and neighbors–especially those at high risk–to ensure they are safe.
Excessive heat could last in Wheeling until June 23 or later.