Map of doom.

In inevitable conversations about the heat, my argument is that summer in D.C. actually isn’t nearly as bad as the complainers make it out to be—except for a handful of truly heinous days (I survived more than five years in an un-air conditioned house, which surely has to give me some authority on this matter). Well, we’re about to have one of those unbearable periods—thanks to a huge heat dome—and it won’t be pretty.

Meteorologists say the next few days could be the hottest stretch since 2012, with temperatures approaching 100 and a heat index as high as 110 degrees. “There’s the potential for loss of life with extreme heat like this,” said Homeland Security and Emergency Management Agency Director Chris Geldart at a press conference this afternoon. “Please look out for your friends and neighbors, and make sure they are staying cool and hydrated.”

Department of Health Director Dr. LaQuandra Nesbitt added that “heat stroke is the most serious of the heat-related illnesses“—and it doesn’t look like what you might assume. Rather than excessive sweating, a person suffering from heat stroke will have dry, red skin. “This is a medical emergency and it is extremely important that you call 911,” she said. Other symptoms can include confusion, delirium, or loss of consciousness.

Speaking from King Greenleaf Spray Park, City Administrator Rashad Young announced extended hours (until 9 p.m.) at spray parks and pools around the city. He also reminded residents that rec centers, public libraries, and wellness centers are also good indoor places to escape the oppressive weather. Department of Human Services Director Laura Zeilinger said that a number of facilities serving the homeless would also have extended hours.

The D.C. Department of Parks and Recreation has already cancelled a recreation day planned for Saturday due to the forecast of doom.

The Washington Humane Society-Washington Animal Rescue League, meanwhile, reminds pet owners to keep a close eye on their animals and make sure they are hydrated.

Other warnings and advice include: seriously, please, don’t open fire hydrants; postpone outdoor activities to later in the day; don’t leave children or pets in vehicles, and drink plenty of water.

Pepco, for its part, says it is prepared. “We have significantly increased the number of crews on the clock throughout the weekend, and as long as the heat emergency lasts,” senior vice president Bill Gausman said this afternoon. “We do not anticipate any problem in being able to supply the load.” Meanwhile, a number of museums on the Mall are closed due to a power outage in Southwest.

The Office of the Chief Technology Officer has a handy map of spray parks, pools, and cooling centers.