UPDATE: The early heat wave broke daily records Wednesday — Austin hit 101 degrees, Houston hit 96 degrees, San Antonio may have been one of the hottest places on the planet. Closer to the boarder, Del Rio International Airport hit 106 degrees. A heat advisory remains in effect for parts of South Central Texas Thursday, according to the National Weather Service, which warned that more records would likely break and “additional heat products may be needed.” So, stay hydrated, take breaks, and be safe out there, y’all.
Summertime temperatures have unfortunately come early to Texas. Some cities are bracing for triple-digit, potentially record-breaking temperatures this week.
The heat is expected to build Monday afternoon, with the highest temperatures expected on Wednesday afternoon, KVUE reported. In Austin, temperatures may reach a high between 100 and 102 degrees, while Hill County spots like Llano and Johnson City could see a high of 107 degrees, according to the outlet.
This would be the eighth May since 1898 when Austin has had over 100-degree weather. The city’s average first triple-digit day falls on July 8, according to KVUE. San Antonio will likely see the earliest 100-degree heat wave ever recorded in its history, according to KSAT. And, in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, temperatures are expected to reach 96 and 100 degrees on Tuesday and Wednesday, respectively, breaking the record high of 95 degrees on the same days in the 1950s, WFAA reported.
The Electric Reliability Council of Texas predicts the electric capacity to go over the expected demand every day this week, according to KHOU. Energy experts also told the outlet that they’re confident the Texas power grid can withstand the hottest days of the year so far.
As the state moves into blistering weather this week, Texans should remember to stay hydrated and indoors when possible — especially between 3 p.m. and 6 p.m., when temperatures are at their peak. Experts also recommend replacing or cleaning the filters of air conditioning units and ensuring your thermostat works properly.
