Houston's heat could cause health problems, officials say
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Houston could reach triple digits this week.
Why it matters: While forecast temperatures might not meet the city's threshold for its heat emergency plan, officials say hot weather is still a public safety concern.
Driving the news: The National Weather Service says temperatures will be in the mid- to upper 90s through at least the weekend with heat index values, or "feels like" temperatures, upwards of 100.
By the numbers: The Houston Fire Department responded to 485 temperature-related EMS calls between April and the last week of July, according to data shared with Axios.
- 785 such calls were made in 2024 during that time period, and 951 were made in 2023.
- Cooperative rain patterns and few severe weather events helped decrease the number from last year, officials say.
Yes, but: The heat can cause health problems, especially when people are caught off guard.
The intrigue: This year, an abundance of rain has helped keep temperatures low enough where the city has yet to enact its emergency heat plan, in which after-hours cooling centers open for vulnerable individuals.
- The centers are opened once temperatures reach at least 102° or a heat index of 108°, according to the Houston Office of Emergency Management.
What they're saying: Matthew White, HFD's assistant chief over EMS, tells Axios that weather patterns that have played out this summer are similar to this week's pattern — rain-cooled stretches dotted with a few days of dangerous heat. That leaves some people more vulnerable than if it were dangerously hot all summer long.
- Because the heat is not as constant of threat this year, "it sneaks up on people (who) aren't respecting it like they should," White says.
- "People gloss over the few days that we're over 100 degrees," White says. "One of those days you could go out there and make a mistake and end up in a pickle."
The big picture: Houston's high and low temperatures trended above normal (as predicted) in April, May, June and so far in July, according to the National Weather Service.
Context: Hotter summers are one of the most tangible ways we're experiencing climate change.
Pro tip: White says the best way to stay cool is prevention — that is, opting out of outdoor activities if possible.
- If you experience heat-related illness, with symptoms including blurred vision, dizziness or confusion, immediately move to a cooler location and call 911.
- Cold showers can help regulate body temperatures in the absence of air conditioning.
The bottom line: Houston's public facilities like libraries and community service centers are open for folks to cool off during normal business hours.