The U.S. National Weather Service Austin/San Antonio warns high temperatures of between 97- and 103-degrees Fahrenheit are expected this afternoon across South Central Texas.
A few isolated locations southwest of San Antonio could briefly reach 104 degrees.
Combined with humidity, this could lead to heat indices ranging from 100 to 106 degrees.
“Those with outdoor plans are urged to practice heat safety by drinking plenty of water, wearing light-colored and loose-fitting clothing, as well as taking frequent cooling breaks in shaded and/or air-conditioned environments,” NWS said in a special weather statement which expires at 9 p.m.
“Under no circumstances should children or pets be left unattended in vehicles,” the weather service said.
NWS also issued a heat advisory from 1 to 7 p.m. Friday.
“As hot as it’s been lately, this upcoming weekend is expected to be even hotter,” NWS said. “It is extremely important to practice proper heat safety, as heat-related illnesses are one of the leading weather-related causes of death.”
Hot temperatures and high humidity could cause heat-related illnesses, NWS said today.
Residents are urged to drink plenty of fluids, stay in air-conditioned room, stay out of the sun and check up on relatives and neighbors.
Extra precaution should be taken if working outside. Strenuous activities should be rescheduled to morning or evening.
“Know the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke,” NWS said in a statement issued today. “Wear lightweight-and-loose-fitting clothing.
NWS said the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) recommends scheduling frequent rest breaks in shaded or air-conditioned environments.
“Anyone overcome by heat should be moved to a cool and shaded location,” the weather service said. “Heat stroke is an emergency. Call 9-1-1.
Symptoms of heat exhaustion include dizziness, thirst, heavy sweating, nausea and weakness. “Act fast” and move to a cooler area, loosen clothing, sip water and seek medical help if symptoms don’t improve, NWS said.
Signs of heat stroke are confusion, dizziness, and loss of consciousness. “Act fast” by moving the person to a cooler area, loosen clothing and remove extra layers, cool with water or ice and call 9-1-1.
Heat stroke can cause death or permanent disability without emergency treatment.
In other bad news, NWS warns a plume of Saharan dust is working its way westward across the Atlantic. Model guidance suggests it could arrive Sunday, with atmospheric dust concentrations maximizing over east Texas on Tueday.
