VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. — While the National Weather Service has issued a heat advisory for Saturday, organizers for Juneteenth and Pride events are doing everything to keep people safe and hydrated.
“So it’s always hot during Pride month fest, but this weekend it’s going to be exceptional,” said Jeff Ryder, the President of Hampton Roads Pride.
Ryder says the organization plans to monitor closely those who plan to attend the American Rover Pridefest Sail at Town Point Park.
“So we’re working with the city and public health officials. There will be EMS officials at the park monitoring the crowd,” said Ryder.
Ryder says his team will provide shade tents and a hydration station. PrideFest organizers will also watch for signs of dehydration and suggest attendees wear light clothing to stay cool.
Pride events will continue to kick off in Virginia Beach for the 4th Annual Pride at the Beach.
Organizers say they expect thousands to attend. As extreme heat is expected to impact most of the East Coast over the weekend, Virginia Beach Lifesaving Service Tom Gill offers ways to stay safe.
“The water temperature is great right now. However, the water does not hydrate you, so make sure you’re taking in plenty of water and the occasional sports drink, you know, to get those electrolytes refilled,” said Gill.
Gill also says people should avoid drinking alcohol as it causes dehydration. He also says to be careful around the sand. He says high heat can cause sand temperatures to rise to 140 degrees to the touch, causing burns to the bottom of your feet. Also, he says to keep your pets at home. The high temperatures can burn their paws plus, dogs are not allowed on Virginia Beach Oceanfront during the summer months.
Meanwhile, on the Peninsula, the heat forces the City of Newport News to reschedule its Juneteenth Freedom Festival. Originally scheduled to start at noon, the celebration will now kick off at 4 p.m. at Victory Landing Park.