Record heat through Wednesday. The Rappahannock will save you. Use it responsibly.

It is going to be hot in the Burg this week. Record-setting, per StormTracker8.

There is a thing locals already know that newcomers do not yet: when the heat breaks 95° and you are about to lose your mind, the Rappahannock is right there. City Dock to Old Mill Park is a free, cold, working air conditioner that predates electricity.

A short list of what the river will tolerate, and what it will not:

The river will tolerate:

• Tubes, kayaks, dogs, kids in life vests
• A folding chair planted six inches deep
• A reasonable cooler with a reasonable amount of beer
• You sitting on a rock doing nothing for two hours

The river will not tolerate:

• Glass on the rocks
• Trash you brought in that you do not bring out
• Anyone underestimating the current after a rain
• Anyone over-estimating their swimming after a beer

Heritage Trail and Canal Path stay shaded most of the day. The Free Lance-Star parking lot fountain is, against all rational design choices, also still a thing. The library is air-conditioned and free. Goolrick's is air-conditioned and serves a milkshake.

Stay hydrated. Check on your older neighbors. The dog cannot tell you it is too hot — you have to know.

We will publish a fresh heat-and-humidity check Wednesday morning before it peaks. Until then, the river is open.