It’s going to be a sizzling Fourth of July in Fort Worth with heat index of 109 degrees

It’s going to be a sizzler this Fourth of July.

Temperatures are expected to reach 101 degrees across the Metroplex on Thursday, with a heat index of 109. By the time it gets dark enough for fireworks, temperatures should fall to the upper 80s or 90s, but it will still feel steamy.

The good news is that potential thunderstorms will hold off until early Friday, bringing in much cooler temperatures going into the weekend.

But family and friends gathering for the many Fourth of July fireworks shows and celebrations will need to plan accordingly for the heat. For those looking to stock up on groceries on the holiday, make sure check to what businesses around Fort Worth will be open.

Here are a few tips on how to beat the heat:

What are the symptoms of heat exhaustion or heat stroke?

Both heat exhaustion and heat stroke are prevalent during Texas summers, and can be dangerous.

Heat exhaustion

Heat exhaustion occurs through excessive sweating and is the body’s response to excessive loss of water and salt. Eventually, heat exhaustion can lead to heat stroke, the deadlier version of the two.

Here’s what heat exhaustion symptoms look like, according to the NWS:

• Heavy sweating
• Tiredness
• Weak pulse
• Dizziness
• Fainting and vomiting

If someone is experiencing these symptoms, here’s what to do:

• Move to a cooler area
• Loosen clothing
• Sip cool water
• Seek medical help if symptoms do not improve

Heat stroke

Heat stroke is the deadliest heat-related illness and occurs when the body can no longer control its temperature.

When heat stroke occurs, the body’s temperature can rise to 106 degrees or higher within 10 minutes. This can lead to permanent disability or death if the person does not receive emergency care.

Here’s what heat stroke symptoms look like, according to the NWS:

• Throbbing headache
• Confusion
• Fainting
• Nausea and dizziness
• Rapid and strong pulse

If someone is experiencing these symptoms, here’s what to do:

• Call 911 or get the person to a hospital immediately
• Move to a cooler area that’s air-conditioned
• Use cool cloths to reduce body temperature
• Do not give them fluids

What are a few ways to stay cool while outside in Texas?

The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department has detailed a few ways for folks to stay cool while outdoor this summer.

Here’s how to beat the heat:

• Hydrate- Drink at least 16 ounces of water for every hour outside. This will help prevent dehydration.
• Wear sunscreen- Apply sunscreen or sunblock when stepping outside. Make sure to reapply every couple hours and after swimming or sweating.
• Dress cool- Wearing light, loose-fitting and breathable clothes can help the body stay cool while in the sun. Wearing a hat can help, along with wearing breathable shoes.
• Eat salty- Food helps keep energy up and replaces the salt lost from sweating. Snacking on salty foods such as jerky, trail mix, granola and dried fruit is a good way to nourish the body.
• Buddy awareness- While outdoors, it’s important to be with people who can look after each other and watch for heat illness symptoms.

How to take care of pets during the Texas summer heat

The Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals of Texas has laid out a few ways to keep furry friends safe the next couple months.

Here’s how to take care of pets during the summer:

• Hydration- Make sure pets have access to fresh, cool water at all times. Having multiple water bowls around the house is a plus, and for outdoor animals, place dishes in shady spaces.
• Don’t do too much- Avoid strenuous activities during the hottest parts of the day. Instead, exercise pets in the early morning or late evening when temperatures are cooler.
• Protect paws- Pavement can absorb heat during sunny days, so opt for grassy areas while walking pets. Paw wax or booties can help shield paws from hot pavement.
• Stay shady- Anytime pets are outside, make sure they have access to shady areas where they can get out of the sun. Under a tree is best or hanging up an opened umbrella can help provide shade.
• Never leave a pet in locked car- No matter if its only a few minutes, do not leave pets unattended in a parked car. Even if the windows are cracked, the inside of car during summer can rise to deadly temperatures.

This story was originally published June 28, 2024 at 2:50 PM.

Brayden Garcia

Fort Worth Star-Telegram

Brayden Garcia is a service journalism reporter at the Fort Worth Star-Telegram. He is part of a team of local journalists who answer reader questions and write about life in North Texas. Brayden mainly writes about weather and all things Taylor Sheridan-related.