Heat wave expected in Central Texas this weekend with feels-like temps of 108 degrees

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2 days ago

As the weekend approaches, a wave of extreme heat is building across Central Texas and South Texas, with temperatures expected to peak Saturday through Monday.
Recent rainfall and evapotranspiration — the process by which water evaporates from the soil and plants — will keep moisture levels high, further boosting heat index readings.
According to the National Weather Service in Austin/San Antonio, many locations will see high temperatures ranging from the mid-90s to just over 100 degrees — and the heat index could make it feel even hotter.
Cities like San Antonio, Del Rio and Eagle Pass are forecast to hit 100 or 101 degrees, while others such as Austin, Cuero, and New Braunfels will hover just below triple digits. But the real story lies in the heat index — a measure of how hot it feels when humidity is factored in.
By Sunday and Monday, heat index values are expected to reach near 110 degrees in several cities.
More: Texas heat cramping your outdoor walking routine? Try these shady strolls for hot days.
The temperature is the actual air reading — what a thermometer records in the shade. The heat index, on the other hand, represents what it feels like to the human body when both temperature and humidity are factored in, according to the National Weather Service.
That's why the heat index is often higher than the air temperature, and why it's used to gauge the risk of heat-related illness.
Prolonged exposure to heat index above 80 degrees can lead to fatigue, and as it gets hotter, the risk continues to increase - potentially resulting in heat stroke or even death. Older adults, children, and outdoor workers are generally at higher risk of heat-related incidents.
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See how high the heat index will get in your area.
Extreme heat is the deadliest weather-related hazard in the United States, claiming more lives each year than hurricanes, floods or tornadoes.
Experts urge Texans to take precautions: stay hydrated, avoid outdoor activity during peak afternoon hours, wear light clothing and check on vulnerable neighbors, including the elderly and those without air conditioning, throughout these next couple of weeks and into the summer.
According to the Centers for Disease Control, there are multiple types of heat-related illnesses. Heat cramps and heat rash can be treated by staying indoors and getting hydrated. But some others are more serious.
Heat exhaustion is a mild heat-related illness that occurs in hot temperatures, especially when you're not drinking enough water or other non-alcoholic fluids. People most at risk for heat exhaustion are the elderly, those with high blood pressure, and individuals working or exercising in the heat.
Symptoms of heat exhaustion include:
Excessive thirst
Profuse sweating
Headache
Dizziness or confusion
Nausea
If you or anyone you're with experiences these symptoms, move to a shaded or air-conditioned area, use a fan, or immerse in cool water. Also, drink cool, non-alcoholic beverages like water or sports drinks with electrolytes.
Heat exhaustion can escalate into heat stroke, a serious, life-threatening condition. Heat stroke occurs when the body's temperature rises rapidly, and it can no longer cool itself down.
Early symptoms of heat stroke are similar to heat exhaustion but progress to more severe signs, including:
Lack of sweating
Body temperature rising to 106°F or higher within 10-15 minutes (even without a thermometer, the skin will feel very hot)
Loss of consciousness
Heat stroke is a medical emergency. If you suspect someone is experiencing it, seek immediate medical attention. Without emergency treatment, heat stroke can cause death or permanent disability.
This article originally appeared on Austin American-Statesman: Extreme heat to hit Central Texas with feels-like temps of 108 degrees