Friday night’s storms caused major power outages and downed many trees across Loudoun County.

As residents clean up the mess from the high winds and heavy downpours, the Loudoun County government reminded them to be wary power lines laying on the ground, which still may be live with electricity. In addition, resident are asked to use flashlights and battery-operated equipment rather than candles during the outage.

High temperatures will continue Saturday, with a heat index of about 104 anticipated. Because it may take several days to restore power to everyone, according to spokesmen from NOVEC and Dominion Virginia Power, residents are asked to start making plans to seek shelter with friends, family, neighbors and public buildings, such as movie theaters, shopping malls and community centers.

Don’t forget to check on vulnerable neighbors who may need assistance without power.

County-operated facilities are located in Leesburg, Sterling and Purcellville. During normal business hours, people can seek refuge from the heat:

• The Senior Center of Leesburg, 102 North Street NW, Leesburg
• Douglass Community Center, 405 E. Market St., Leesburg
• Carver Center, 200 Willie Palmer Way, Purcellville
• Sterling Community Center, 120 Enterprise St., Sterling

Residents in Ashburn may also try the Ashburn Library.

The Loudoun County Animal Shelter will be closed today, Saturday, June 30, to the public.

Residents are reminded to take these steps to prevent heat-related illnesses, injuries and deaths during this period of excessive heat:

• Stay in air-conditioned rooms.
• Drink plenty of fluids.
• Replace salt and minerals.
• Wear appropriate clothing and sunscreen.
• Schedule outdoor activities carefully.
• Pace yourself.
• Monitor people at high risk.
• Do not leave children or pets in cars.
• Check on relatives and neighbors.
• Use common sense.

More tips for staying cool during hot weather are online at www.loudoun.gov/heat.