Many Dallas residents are grateful for air conditioning this week, as the city remains under an excessive heat warning. Rising temperatures, record-breaking humidity and a high dew point are responsible for weather that feels even hotter than forecasted temperatures.
The Dallas heat has remained steady in the mid-to-high 90s and is expected to break triple digits in the coming week. The heat wave is characteristic of Texas summers, and severe weather events are becoming more frequent.
The National Weather Service’s excessive heat warning is expected to last until at least 8 p.m. on Wednesday.
It’s 93 degrees but “feels like” it’s hotter
When weather apps and meteorologists say the temperature “feels like” it’s higher than recorded levels, there are other factors at play. The National Weather Service calculates heat index by considering air temperature and relative humidity.
Relative humidity compares the amount of water the air can hold at the current temperature with the actual amount of water in the air, according to the National Weather Service. When relative humidity is high, it decreases the evaporation of sweat, making the body retain heat.
So, if it’s 93 degrees outside but the relative humidity levels are at 70%, people might feel like it is 115 degrees.
Dallas broke humidity records this month and is approaching previously unseen dew point levels. Additional moisture gives air a sticky feeling that makes many residents prefer to stay indoors.
High density urban areas like Dallas and Fort Worth can also hold onto heat.
A heat advisory will be declared by the National Weather Service if high temperatures and humidity levels put people at high risk of heat-induced illness.
What do heat alerts mean?
Heat alerts will be issued by the National Weather service if conditions could become dangerous.
- Hazardous weather outlook – A period of excessive heat is possible within the next 3 to five days.
- Excessive heat watch – A prolonged period of dangerous, excessive heat is possible within 48 hours.
- Heat advisory – Excessive heat is expected, creating situations where heat-related illnesses are possible.
- Excessive heat warning – Dangerous heat and humidity conditions, surpassing at least 105 degrees, are expected in the next 24-hours. Conditions put people at high risk for heat-related illnesses.
How can I stay safe?
As the Dallas heat index approaches potentially dangerous levels, the National Weather Service advises residents to take active safety precautions.
High heat levels can cause dehydration, heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Drink water, pay attention to weather alerts and stay indoors whenever possible.
Dallas also has “Beat the Heat” cooling centers available throughout the city that will open to the public beginning June 27.