A prolonged heat wave will drive temperatures dangerously high in Maryland ahead of the Fourth of July weekend.

A hot air mass, often referred to as a heat dome, has settled over portions of the U.S and is driving eastward, according to the National Weather Service, with temperatures expected to reach triple digits starting Wednesday.

High humidity could make the weather feel even hotter, with a heat index as high as 115, according to the Weather Prediction Center.

Temperatures will hover in the mid to upper 90s across Maryland on Wednesday, and highs will climb to 100 in the Baltimore region. Thursday, Friday and the Fourth of July holiday are expected to be the hottest days of the week, said Kevin Rodriguez, a meteorologist for the weather service’s Baltimore/Washington office. Highs will be around 103 those days.

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The forecast for the week is mainly clear skies, with a 20% chance of rain in the evenings during the weekend.

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Marylanders should monitor themselves and limit their time outside, Rodriguez said. It’s best to avoid outdoor activities during the day and opt to either be out earlier in the morning or wait until evening, he said. Make sure you stay hydrated and have access to places where you can cool down.