An Excessive Heat Warning for Central Texas has been extended through Wednesday evening. The City encourages Austinites to continue practicing heat awareness and safety tips. The National Weather Service expects high temperatures from 100-112 degrees and heat index values could reach 118 degrees.
City of Austin’s Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Management asks all Austinites to take precautions to protect themselves and identify the symptoms of heat-related illnesses.
“When the heat index reaches temperatures well above 100, it is important for Austinites take action to protect themselves from the heat,” said Ken Snipes, Director of Homeland Security and Emergency Management. “We encourage Austinites to stay hydrated, stay cool, and stay safe during these conditions. Knowing what to do in these situations can save lives.”
Triple digit temperatures are expected throughout the week and possibly into next week. Austinites should be prepared to practice heat safety throughout the summer months and get heat aware at https://www.austintexas.gov/
Due to the extreme heat in the forecast and projected record demand on the electric grid, ERCOT issued a voluntary conservation notice on Tuesday morning requesting all Texans to reduce electricity use from 4-8 p.m. if safe to do so. ERCOT is not in emergency operations.
The City of Austin has multiple resources available to community members to assist with the heat as well.
Cooling Centers
Throughout the summer, some Austin Parks and Recreation’s recreation centers and Austin Public Library facilities will serve as cooling centers during normal operating hours for temporary reprieve during the hottest hours of the day. Several locations offer extended hours during periods of excessive heat. Service animals are permitted in City facilities.
To review the current list of cooling centers, locations and hours of operations, please visit: austintexas.gov/alerts.
Please Note: The published list is current as of today but changes frequently. Please always check austintexas.gov/alerts for the most up-to-date cooling center information and/or call to verify hours before arriving.
CapMetro Transportation Available
During the summer, CapMetro will not turn away customers utilizing its services to reach one of Austin’s cooling centers who are unable to pay the fee. Passengers are asked to inform their operator if going to a cooling center before taking their seat.
More Heat Safety Tips
Recognize Heat-Related Illnesses
Knowing how to identify the symptoms of heat-related illnesses like heat exhaustion and heat stroke can save lives. Protect yourself and those around you by knowing the proper actions to take if someone is experiencing one of these illnesses.
Heat stroke is a serious health risk and can cause permanent damage or death if emergency treatment is not given promptly. If you or someone you know is experiencing heat stroke, MOVE THEM, COOL THEM, CALL 911.
Heat stroke symptoms include:
- Lethargy or loss of consciousness
- Confusion
- Hot, red, dry or damp skin
- Rapid and strong pulse
- Body temperature above 103 F (or if skin is hot to the touch)
Heat exhaustion can progress into heat stroke within minutes if untreated. Move to a cooler and/or shaded area as quickly as possible, loosen the victim’s clothing and have them sip cool water slowly.
Heat exhaustion symptoms include:
- Cool, pale, clammy skin
- Weakness
- Dizziness
- Heavy sweating
- Nausea or vomiting
- Fast, weak pulse
Heat cramps, while the least threatening of heat-related illnesses, can still progress into heat exhaustion and heat stroke if untreated. If you begin experiencing muscle or abdominal cramps in the heat, stop your physical activity, move to a cooler location, drink water and wait for the cramps to go away before doing any more physical activity.
If the cramps last longer than an hour, or the person exhibits signs of heat exhaustion or heat stroke, call 911.
Stay Hydrated
Drinking water throughout the day can prevent a heat-related illness. Avoid sugary or alcoholic beverages in the heat. If you are outdoors for a prolonged period or are participating in a high-energy activity or work, consider drinking an electrolyte containing beverage in addition to taking regular water breaks. Drink water regularly, even if you are not thirsty to avoid becoming dehydrated.
If your pet is outdoors with you, bring plenty of drinking water for them as well as a collapsible bowl to keep your furry friend hydrated.
Look Before You Lock
Heat stroke is the leading cause of non-collision vehicle-related deaths in children. Always check the back seats of your vehicle for children, pets, and adults before leaving and locking your parked vehicle.
Temperatures inside a vehicle can reach life-threatening levels within minutes on an 80-degree day. With temperatures in the triple digits, those levels can be reached even faster. If you see someone locked in a hot car, take action and call 911 immediately.
Personal Protection
Initial steps Austinites can take to protect themselves is wearing light-colored and loose-fitting clothing. A wide-brimmed hat also provides protection from direct sunlight. Apply and reapply sunscreen according to the product’s recommendations and take breaks in the shade throughout your time outdoors.
Keep Your Home Cool
Home owners and renters can protect their homes by taking precautions to keep the temperature down inside their home. Keep curtains drawn and blinds closed to reduce the amount of sunlight entering your home. Running ceiling fans or electric fans can move air through the home, making it feel cooler as well.
For more heat safety tips and other weather-related tips, please visit ReadyCentralTexas.org.
Other Community Services
Family Eldercare Fan Drive
Local non-profit charity Family Eldercare is currently holding a fan drive to distribute box fans for elderly community members. Eligibility requirements and hours of operation may vary. Some sites require appointments. To learn more about how to obtain a fan, please review Family Eldercare’s 2023 distribution partner locations list.
You may be eligible for a free fan if you are:
- 55+
- Disabled and receiving disability benefits
- Receiving SNAP benefits
- In a household with children under 18 years of age
- Have an income at less than 200% of the federal poverty level
- Experiencing financial or medical hardship
If you are unable to get fans, please call the fan drive hotline at 512-459-4326 for assistance.
