Southeast Texas is waking up to another dangerously hot day Sunday, with afternoon temperatures expected to climb into the mid-90s — and forecasters say it is going to feel even worse than the thermometer reads.
High humidity will push the heat index well above the actual air temperature, creating conditions that can quickly lead to heat exhaustion or heat stroke for anyone spending extended time outdoors. Meteorologists say this is not the day to push through discomfort.
Adding to the concern, a Saharan dust plume that has been hovering over the region for days is not going anywhere soon. The dust is expected to linger through at least Wednesday, reducing air quality and creating hazy skies across the Houston metro area. While the dust has thinned slightly, it remains a real risk for people with asthma, allergies, or other respiratory conditions.
Who is most at risk
Health officials stress that the heat is especially dangerous for older adults, young children, outdoor workers, and pets. Deaths and hospitalizations tied to extreme heat are preventable — but only if people take the threat seriously.
What you need to do right now
- Drink water consistently throughout the day, not just when you feel thirsty
- Take breaks in shade or air-conditioned spaces during peak heat hours
- Wear light, loose-fitting clothing if going outside
- Never leave children or pets inside a parked vehicle — even for a few minutes
- Check on elderly neighbors and relatives throughout the day
- If the air looks visibly hazy, limit time outdoors — especially strenuous activity
No relief until late in the week
There is no rain in the near-term forecast, and temperatures are actually expected to climb slightly as the week goes on. Residents should plan accordingly and not wait for conditions to ease — because forecasters say they will not, at least not before Thursday.
5-Day Forecast:
Sunday: Hot and hazy — 96° / 75°
Monday: Sunny — 97° / 76°
Tuesday: Mostly sunny — 97° / 78°
Wednesday: Mostly sunny — 98° / 79°
Thursday: Partly cloudy, 10% rain — 98° / 79°