Houston is about to face one of its most uncomfortable stretches of the summer — and health officials say the danger is more serious than most people realize.
Temperatures will climb into the low 90s Thursday through Saturday, but that is not the real threat. The heat index — what it actually feels like on your body — will reach between 100 and 107 degrees each afternoon. That level of heat can cause heat exhaustion or heat stroke within minutes for people working or exercising outdoors.
What makes this stretch especially dangerous
Overnight temperatures will offer almost no relief. Lows will only drop into the upper 70s, meaning the human body gets little chance to recover between days. Back-to-back nights of poor cooling combined with daytime heat index values above 100 degrees is a combination that sends people to emergency rooms.
Children and elderly residents face the highest risk. Officials are urging residents not to leave kids or pets inside vehicles under any circumstances — even briefly.
If you must be outside, take frequent breaks in the shade or air conditioning, drink water before you feel thirsty, and wear lightweight, light-colored clothing.
Rain is coming — but it brings its own risks
The heat breaks slightly by Sunday, when storm chances rise to 70 percent. By Monday, rain chances jump to 80 percent as a cold front stalls north of the city.
However, forecasters are watching a tropical moisture system that could interact with this front. If that happens, Monday and Tuesday could bring minor flooding in low-lying areas. Residents in flood-prone neighborhoods should pay attention to updates through the weekend.
Coastal danger remains high
Anyone heading to Gulf-facing beaches should know that a high rip current risk remains in effect through at least Friday morning. Rip currents near rocks, jetties, and piers are particularly strong right now. Swim only near a lifeguard.
A tropical disturbance in the Bay of Campeche currently has only a 10 percent development chance and is expected to move into eastern Mexico before it can strengthen.
Stay alert, stay hydrated, and check back for weather alert day updates early next week.
