An excessive heat warning for Comal County will remain in effect until 8 p.m. Sunday, the U.S. National Weather Service Austin-San Antonio (NWS) said in a weather alert issued at 2:17 p.m. today.
Dangerously hot temperatues are forecast, with heat-index values as high as 120 degrees Fahrenheit.
NWS said hazy conditions across South Central Texas are being caused by smoke from fires burning in Mexico and Central America. Humidity and persistent upper-level high pressure have played a role as well.
At 4:30 p.m. NWS reported the heat index in San Antonio was at 115 degrees, the highest on record, dating back to 1946.
Natalie Shults, library director for Canyon Lake’s Tye Preston Memorial Library, 16311 S. Access Rd., said those who need relief from the heat are welcome to come in and cool off.
Library hours of operation are 9 a.m.-8 p.m. Monday to Thursday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Friday, and 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday. The library is closed on Sunday.
NWS said extreme heat and humidity will significantly increase the potential for heat-related illnesses, especially for those working or participating in outdoor activities.
Precautionary/preparedness actions include:
- Drinking plenty of fluids
- Staying in an air-conditioned room
- Staying out of the sun
- Checking up on friends and neighbors
- Never leaving young children and pets unattended in a vehicle under any circumstances
- Taking extra precautions when working or spending time outside
- Rescheduling strenuous activities to early morning or evening
- Knowing the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke
- Wearing lightweight and loose-fitting clothing when possible
- Reducing risk during outdoor work by following Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) guidelines which include scheduling frequent rest breaks in shaded or air-conditioned environments.
- Moving anyone overcome by heat to a cool and shaded location.
- Heat stroke is an emergency. Call 911.
