A possibly historic, early-season heat wave is hitting South Central Texas, with many records likely to be tied or broken, according to the National Weather Service.
The scorching temperatures are triggering a heat advisory, beginning at 1 p.m. on Tuesday, May 13, and lasting until 9 p.m. Wednesday, May 14. Triple-digit heat approaching 110 degrees is possible in some areas.
The advisory covers Austin, San Antonio and stretches as far as Eagle Pass and Del Rio.
“Potentially historic and unusually hot high temps continue with most areas reaching 100 or higher each afternoon,” the National Weather Service of Austin/San Antonio posted on X.
The early-season heat wave will peak mid week, and the advisory could be upgraded as temperatures continue to rise, especially on Wednesday, the National Weather Service noted.
The rising temperatures are caused by a strong high-pressure ridge parked over much of the country and centered over Texas. These “heat domes” essentially trap hot air over a region, sometimes driving up temperatures for days on end, reported NBC News.
Many may not be acclimated to the heat so early in the year, the National Weather Service warned, and people should practice heat safety.
Here are some tips to keep in mind, courtesy of the National Weather Service:
Heat stroke symptoms
Heat stroke symptoms include confusion, dizziness and a person could even become unconscious, according to the National Weather Service.
Heat stroke can cause death or permanent disability if emergency treatment is not given.
If someone is experiencing heat stroke, it’s important to call 911, move the person to a cooler area, loosen clothing and cool them with water or ice.
Heat exhaustion symptoms
Heat exhaustion can lead to heat stroke, and symptoms include dizziness, thirst, heavy sweating, nausea and weakness.
If someone is experiencing heat exhaustion, move them to a cooler area, loosen clothing, have them sip on cool water and seek medical help if symptoms don’t improve.
Natassia Paloma may be reached at npaloma@gannett.com, @NatassiaPaloma on Twitter; natassia_paloma on Instagram, and Natassia Paloma Thompson on Facebook.
This article originally appeared on El Paso Times: Potentially historic heat wave triggers heat advisory in South Central Texas
Reporting by Natassia Paloma, El Paso Times / El Paso Times
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
