Excessive heat alert in Houston on Memorial Day (PHOTOS)
On Monday, officials issued a heat alert in Houston, Texas as temperatures soared to record highs. What did they say?
2024-05-30T15:05:50+00:00- Extreme heat alert in Houston, Texas.
- Authorities warn of extreme temperatures.
- At least 6 counties are under an excessive heat warning.
Authorities in Houston, Texas, have issued an excessive heat warning for Memorial Day, Monday, May 27, 2024.
According to forecasts, temperatures could soar up to 114 degrees Fahrenheit (45 degrees Celsius).
The alert issued by the Harris County authorities warns that the heat will continue until 10:00 p.m. local time.
Montgomery County, Fort Bend County, Waller County, Wharton County and Washington County are also under the same alert.
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Heat alert in Houston, Texas
Authorities urge Houston residetns to stay hydrated, limit time spent doing outdoor activities and stay in the shade.
According to the National Weather Service (NWS), the humidity will be 96% throughout the day.
The NWS explains that the reason for the excessive heat is a «high pressure dome» over Mexico, and Houston is right on the edge of this atmospheric phenomenon.
The Houston Police Department (HPD) and the Harris County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO) also warned of various risks.
Do not leave children or pets locked in a car
Both HPD and HCSO strongly urge residents not to leave children or pets locked in cars.
NWS statistics show that an average of 38 children die in the United States from extreme heat stroke after being locked in a car.
After 10:00 p.m., according to the NWS, there is a 20% chance that severe storms will hit the Houston metropolitan area.
However, the problems that people can face due to excessive heat are not limited to physical discomfort.
High temperatures can cause more than physical discomfort
The Department of Psychology at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) warns of several emotional and mental risks.
According to their study, ‘Heat Stress and Its Consequences,’ high temperatures are very dangerous.
The NIH states that heat poses risks «to physical health, such as heat exhaustion or heatstroke… it can also negatively affect an individual’s mental health.»
«High temperatures can increase discomfort, interfere with sleep, and disrupt daily routines, which could lead to an escalation of stress, anxiety,» says the NIH.
Heat alert in Houston: Stay calm when driving
The excessive heat warning comes on Memorial Day, when we remember fallen soldiers.
Over the long weekend many people in Houston will be traveling visit relatives or friends, and driving in high temperatures can make some people aggressive.
Moreover, many people may consume alcohol, which does not help with road rage when temperatures exceed 100 degrees.
HPD and HCSO ask everyone driving to remain calm, not drink excessively and stay hydrated with water.
Children and the elderly should take extra precautions
Samuel Peña, Chief of the Houston Fire Department (HFD), asks the community not to let their guard down during the excessive heat.
The HFD advises those who want to exercise outdoors in parks or streets to wait until after sunset.
Children at pools should be protected with lightweight clothing, there are long-sleeved water shirts, and sunscreen.
Be sure to check on elderly neighbors or relatives.