We’re feeling grateful today because it isn’t as hot as it was back in 2011.

The hottest recorded temperature in the Sterling-Dulles Airport Area was on July 22, 2011, reaching 105 degrees.

Editor’s note: Northern Virginia is an expansive area, with varying temperatures city to city. Some cities may have a different date for their hottest day on record.

What the headlines said

It was reported that July 2011 was the hottest recorded month, with an average temperature of 84.5 degrees. The same article reported that the heat index recorded in Warrenton reached 133 degrees.

That’s not all

In addition to record-breaking heat, NOVA experienced several other significant climate events in 2011.

August 2011 Earthquake

This event took place on Aug. 23, with the epicenter being located in Mineral, VA. It was a 5.8 magnitude earthquake.

Hurricane Irene

This category one hurricane made landfall on the East Coast the same year and hit NOVA around Aug. 27.

How to weather the weather today

Thankfully, there are plenty of ways to stay cool in Northern Virginia.