HOUSTON, Texas — If you have to be outside today, the next few hours could be dangerous.
Temperatures are climbing into the upper 90s across Southeast Texas, with Houston expected to reach around 98 degrees. But the real concern is not the thermometer — it is how hot it actually feels.
Heat index could hit 111 degrees this afternoon
With humidity factored in, heat index values are expected to reach between 105 and 111 degrees in parts of the area today.
The National Weather Service says Wet Bulb Globe Temperature values — a measure of heat stress on the human body — could hit extreme levels between 1 and 4 p.m.
That is the most dangerous window of the day. If you can stay indoors during those hours, do it.
Coastal areas will be slightly cooler, with highs in the lower 90s.
Rain chances are very low today
Only a 10 to 20 percent chance of a stray afternoon shower or storm exists today, mainly along the sea breeze.
Most neighborhoods will stay completely dry.
Friday brings a slightly better chance — around 20 to 30 percent — as Gulf moisture moves inland. Heat index values on Friday could climb as high as 112 degrees in Houston.
The weekend looks mostly sunny, hot, and dry, with highs near the upper 90s both Saturday and Sunday.
Heat safety reminders for today
The heat this afternoon is serious. Here is what local health and weather officials recommend:
- Drink water consistently — do not wait until you feel thirsty
- Take breaks indoors or in the shade every 20 to 30 minutes
- Avoid strenuous activity between 1 and 4 p.m.
- Wear lightweight, light-colored, loose clothing
- Check on elderly neighbors, young children, and pets
- Never leave a child or pet inside a parked vehicle — even for a minute
Tropics update — no threat to Texas right now
Tropical Storm Cristobal has weakened and is no longer a named storm.
The National Hurricane Center is still watching two tropical waves in the Atlantic. The first, AL92, has seen its development chances drop significantly — now sitting at 40 percent over seven days, down from 80 percent Thursday morning. Dry air and strong upper-level winds are working against it.
The second wave, AL94, remains disorganized but still has a 50 percent chance of development over the next seven days as it moves westward.
Neither system poses any immediate concern for Texas.
Separately, Tropical Storm Lala is approaching Hawaii and could near hurricane strength by early Saturday. A Hurricane Watch is in effect for the Big Island.
Are you taking extra precautions in this heat, or do you have tips for staying cool that work for your family? Share them in the comments — your neighbors could use the help right now.