Southeast Texas is making a quick and dramatic weather transition — from Tropical Storm Arthur to a dangerous heat event, all within the span of 24 hours.
A Heat Advisory is now in effect from 11 AM Thursday through 10 PM Friday for portions of south central and southeast Texas, including the Houston metro area. Heat index values are expected to reach 107 to 114 degrees during the late morning through early evening hours both days, making this the first Heat Advisory of the season.
Thursday will be the first full taste of summer’s worst. As Arthur pushes inland and skies clear, temperatures will climb into the lower 90s — but the real story is the humidity. Dewpoints surging into the upper 70s to lower 80s will send the heat index soaring well into the triple digits during the afternoon hours. There will be little overnight relief either, with lows staying in the upper 70s to around 80 degrees.
Heat is one of the deadliest weather hazards, and conditions this week are serious.
Officials are urging residents to drink plenty of fluids even if you don’t feel thirsty, stay in air conditioning as much as possible, and avoid being outdoors during peak afternoon heating.
If you work outside, try to reschedule strenuous activity to early morning or evening hours, and take frequent breaks in the shade or in a cool environment.
Know the signs of heat exhaustion — heavy sweating, weakness, and nausea — and heat stroke, which is a medical emergency. If someone stops sweating, becomes confused, or loses consciousness in the heat, call 911 immediately.
Children and pets should never be left unattended in a vehicle under any circumstances. Even with windows cracked, car interiors can reach life-threatening temperatures within minutes.
Check on elderly neighbors, family members, and anyone without access to air conditioning. The heat doesn’t discriminate, but it hits the most vulnerable among us hardest.