Maryland Melts: Dangerous heat advisory in effect

A heat advisory is in effect for large parts of Maryland until 8 p.m. Sunday, with heat index values expected to reach 105 degrees.

What’s Happening: The National Weather Service issued the advisory covering Cecil, Anne Arundel, Prince George’s, Charles, St. Mary’s, and Calvert counties, along with parts of Baltimore, Howard, Harford, and Montgomery counties. The advisory runs from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.

What’s Important: Heat index values — a measure of how hot it feels when humidity is factored in with air temperature — are expected to top out at 105 degrees. High heat and humidity together can cause heat-related illness faster than temperature alone.

How This Affects Real People: Residents are advised to drink plenty of fluids, stay in air-conditioned spaces, avoid direct sun, and check on neighbors and relatives. People who work or spend time outdoors are at the greatest risk during the advisory window.