Time to turn up the heat! In the week ahead, significant heat bearing potentially record-breaking temperatures will begin to build over the south-central US.

Ridging currently centered over north-central Mexico will begin to strengthen and build northward throughout the week. This will allow triple degree temperatures to creep northward from Southern Texas into other parts of the south-central US by the weekend.

While triple digit heat is miserable enough on its own, a couple other factors in play will add to the misery.

Overnight lows will fail to fall below 75 degrees for much of the region during this period. When there isn’t sufficient nighttime cooling, the body struggles to “reset” from the heat of the day. This makes heat exhaustion/heat stroke much more likely if proper care isn’t taken.

Additionally, at least for the eastern part of the area in question, dew points will be rather high. So, while actual temperatures may land between the 95 and 110 degree marks, it could “feel like” nearly 120 degrees for some later this week.

Already we can see heat levels rising across the the south-central US. While air temperatures are generally in the low 90s across southern Texas and Louisiana, when you add in the humidity, the heat index or “feels like” temperature is approaching or well into the triple digits.

Let’s talk heat safety:

• Reduce or reschedule outdoor activities to avoid exposure to sun and excessive heat.
• Wear lightweight, loose-fitting, light-colored clothing.
• Stay hydrated. Drink water even if you don’t feel thirsty.
• Stay cool as best you can.
  • Use air conditioning if available.
  • Keep your shades closed during the day to reduce how much your home heats up.
  • Take cool showers or baths if needed.
• Check on your friends, family, and neighbors – especially if they are older or ill. Make sure they are staying cool and offer help if needed.

These and other heat safety tips can be found via the National Weather Service. Stay cool and stay safe!