Dallas Under Heat Advisory as Temperatures and Heat Index Soar Into Dangerous Level

A dangerous stretch of extremely high temperatures is approaching the city of Dallas. The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a heat warning for Thursday at 1 p.m. and will remain in effect until Friday at 7 p.m. The advisory states that the heat index could reach 108 degrees in several counties in north-central and northeast Texas.

The heat index, which combines air temperature and humidity to indicate the actual temperature, will exacerbate the dangers of already high temperatures. It will be sunny and close to 100 degrees on Thursday, with a heat index hitting around 106 degrees. Daytime highs will remain in the mid- to upper 90s, and nighttime lows will stay in the upper 70s through the weekend and early next week, providing little overnight relief.

The NWS is advising people to take precautions to avoid getting sick from the heat. Some suggestions include drinking plenty of water, staying in places with air conditioning, avoiding prolonged sun exposure, and checking on friends or family members who may be vulnerable. People who work outside or engage in physically demanding activities should wear light, loose-fitting clothing and plan breaks in cool or shady areas during the hottest parts of the day.

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) reminds employers to prioritize worker safety by providing them with sufficient breaks, shade, and access to water. Heat fatigue or heat stroke can occur after prolonged exposure to these conditions. Heat stroke is a medical emergency.

If you or someone you know is overheating, the NWS advises moving them to a cool, shady area. "Heat stroke is an emergency; call 911 right away."

Officials say the high-pressure system causing this heat wave is unlikely to break soon. This means that residents and workers in Dallas need to prioritize heat safety until at least the beginning of next week.