Dangerous high temperatures to arrive in Texas, linger in Dallas-Fort Worth over weekend
North Texans will be facing temperatures this weekend that could prove dangerous or even deadly, according to the National Weather Service in Fort Worth.
Highs in the Dallas-Fort Worth region are forecast to reach 101 degrees on Friday and Sunday and remain in the upper 90s on Thursday and Saturday. The National Weather Service is describing forecast highs in parts of the U.S., peaking at 110 in some areas, as “dangerous,” “excessive” and “extreme.”
While thermometers outside may show 101 degrees on Friday and Sunday, temperatures are expected to feel closer to 105 degrees.
And according to the Washington Post, these temperatures are part of a trend of hotter days becoming more frequent each year in Texas. Midland this year has already had 13 days where temps topped out at or over 100 degrees, more than twice as many days than in 2021.
And heat like this can be deadly. On Tuesday, MedStar took three people to North Texas hospitals and received a total of six calls regarding heat-related illnesses in Fort Worth and other nearby cities served by the emergency medical company, according to a spokesman.
The National Weather Service said North Texans should take extra steps this weekend to avoid heat-related illnesses, which can in some cases be deadly. Schedule outdoor activities for cooler parts of the day, namely in the early morning and around and after sunset. Wearing light colored, lightweight clothes can also reduce the risk of heat stroke, heat exhaustion and heat rash, as can spending as much time as possible in the shade, taking breaks in air-conditioned buildings, drinking lots of water and wearing sunscreen.
Heat stroke is the most dangerous of heat-related illnesses. If you or a loved one are experiencing symptoms, including confusion, dizziness and loss of consciousness, immediately call 911 and move that person to a cooler area, loosen clothing and remove extra layers, and cool them down with ice or water.
Heat stroke, if not treated quickly and accurately, can be deadly.
In cases of heat exhaustion, it is important to act quickly. Anybody experiencing heat exhaustion should be moved to a cooler area, drink lots of water and loosen clothes and remove extra layers. If symptoms including dizziness, thirst, heavy sweating, nausea and weakness do not improve, seek immediate medical attention.
