It is hot hot hot outside!
Heat stroke signs
Heat exhaustion and heat stroke are serious heat-related illnesses that can develop during periods of extreme heat and humidity in Texas. Knowing the warning signs, staying hydrated, and taking quick action can help prevent life-threatening complications as temperatures climb under another summer heat dome.
Just days after America 250 celebrations, the rain stopped falling in a good portion of the Lone Star State. The rain was quickly replaced by constantly rising temperatures that nearly reached 100° or more for much of Texas. Most of the time, Texas heat is tolerable, but when you factor in the humidity, that's when it becomes really uncomfortable.
Those living in Texas for any period of time know that it's going to get hot and sticky every summer. We still have things that we need to do outdoors, and when we're outside in the heat and humidity, we need to pay attention to our bodies so that we don't overheat and suffer a heat stroke or heat exhaustion.
Knowing the difference between Heat Exhaustion and Heat Stroke
While working outdoors or being physically active, we have to pay attention to our bodies so that we don't cook them from the inside out. With the combination of heat and humidity, it is challenging for our bodies to properly regulate our core body temperature. When we lose too much water and salt through perspiration, we can experience a heat-related illness. (University of Houston)
During times of extreme heat, we need to stay hydrated and pay attention to what our bodies are telling us
When the temperatures and humidity get high to where it begins to affect people, the National Weather Service will issue any or all of the following:
- Heat Advisory
- Extreme Heat Watch
- Extreme Heat Warning
Heat can be dangerous, and if you're not careful, you could potentially die from overheating your body.
How to Stay Safe During Extreme Texas Heat
If you have any outdoor activities planned, make sure you drink plenty of water and stay hydrated so your body can cool itself through sweating. Find shade and try to stay out of direct sunlight.
Stay hydrated during practice
Ensuring players remain well-hydrated is crucial for their performance and safety on the field, especially during intense training sessions.
UIL REQUIRES NEW HEAT SAFETY RULES FOR TEXAS STUDENT ATHLETES AND BANDS
Texas high schools are now required to use Wet Bulb Globe Temperature (WBGT) readings before and during outdoor athletic practices and marching band activities under new University Interscholastic League (UIL) rules. The updated safety requirements are designed to better protect students from heat-related illnesses during extreme Texas weather.
What Is Wet Bulb Globe Temperature (WBGT)?
The new protocol took effect Aug. 1. The UIL now requires schools to use Wet Bulb Globe Temperature (WBGT) readings Unlike traditional readings, WBGT measures heat stress by combining factors such as air temperature, humidity, wind speed and solar radiation providing a more accurate picture of the potentially dangerous conditions the kids could be facing.
FYI - Texas is adding nearly 3,000 acres of new public land, giving outdoor enthusiasts another place to hunt, explore, and experience some of the Lone Star State's Natural beauty.
The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department recently announced the creation of the 2,850-acre Robbie Davis Wildlife Management Area in Stephens County, northwest of the Dallas-Fort Worth area.
The property will become part of the agency's Cross Timbers and Prairies Ecosystem Management Project.