• Extreme heat will grip the region through Friday. The National Weather Service issued an Extreme Heat Warning for Thursday and Friday. Cooling centers are open across the DC area if you need relief. Details on the alert | Where to find cooling centers
• DC preps for the world's biggest fireworks show on July 4. Officials expect record crowds and some of the hottest temps in years. Plan for packed Metro cars and bring water if you're heading downtown. Fireworks details | Heat forecast

• Fairfax first responders formed a human chain to rescue a woman from a sinking car. The dramatic save happened after the car plunged into a pond in Chantilly. Quick teamwork brought her to safety. Full story
• A man on Metro tracks in Tysons forced a service pause. Police and fire crews responded between the Tysons and McLean stations. Service resumed after the man was removed from the tracks. Incident details

• Trump administration sues Virginia over new assault weapons ban. The lawsuit targets Virginia's not-yet-enacted ban on future sales and manufacturing of assault-style firearms. The legal fight could shape gun laws statewide. Case details

• Tysons could land the DC region's next major convention center. Fairfax officials are researching Tysons as a prime site, aiming to boost business and tourism. The project would compete with DC and National Harbor for big events. Project pitch
• Virginia invests $3.9 million to launch the National Innovation Quarter. The new grant aims to attract companies and nurture startups in fast-growing sectors. The state wants to cement its reputation as a tech hub. Investment details

• Sheetz opens its 10th Loudoun County location today. Grand opening
• Vienna nonprofits team up for a donut fundraiser to aid Venezuela earthquake victims. Fundraiser info
• FCPS outlines plans for phasing in students and transportation at new Skyview High School in Herndon. School update
• Loudoun's Golden to Mars power line project faces new scrutiny. Project update

NoVA is bracing for a scorcher and a record-breaking Fourth. The heat won't slow the crowds or the fireworks; just expect testy commutes and packed cooling centers. Summer is here in full force.

Stay cool and stay sharp out there.

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