Texas is gearing up for what could be a scorching and potentially record-breaking heatwave from today through the weekend. Temperatures are expected to soar 20 degrees above the usual norm, causing hazardous conditions across the state. John Nielsen-Gammon, the state climatologist, shed some light on what Texans can expect during this intense weather event.
What’s causing this heatwave, you ask? Well, according to Nielsen-Gammon, it’s a mix of different factors coming together to create this extreme heat. A pocket of hot air has been building up under high pressure just west of Mexico, while the jet stream is dipping south, bringing some of that hot air into Texas from northern Mexico. Add to that a drought in northern Mexico, and things are really heating up. As the hot air passes over the mountains, it heats up even more before descending over Texas. So, basically, each day will bring yesterday’s weather from Mexico on top of the heat generated in Texas.
Now, hold on to your hats, because Central Texas, particularly around Austin and San Antonio, is expected to bear the brunt of this heatwave. Wednesday is shaping up to be the hottest day, with temperatures possibly exceeding the all-time records for that date by a whopping 10 degrees. As for how long these scorching temperatures will stick around, Nielsen-Gammon mentioned that while there will be a gradual tapering off, Texans can expect a week of high temperatures to contend with.
So, is this sudden shift to summer a sign of things to come? Nielsen-Gammon remains cautiously optimistic, pointing out that while the past few summers have been unusually hot, the seasonal outlook indicates only a 1 in 3 chance of matching the extreme temperatures of the previous years. While that might sound like a reprieve, the reality is that the new normal still means hotter summers than before.
When it comes to dealing with extreme heat, Nielsen-Gammon had some practical advice. If you’re planning outdoor activities, make sure to have plenty of water on hand and take frequent breaks. As tempting as it may be, he advised against hiking this week, given the high risk of heat-related issues. Additionally, with the dry conditions, there’s a heightened risk of fires starting from sparks, so caution is paramount.
As the heatwave looms over Texas, it’s essential for residents to stay prepared and informed. While the outlook may seem daunting, taking simple precautions can help mitigate the impact of the extreme temperatures. With a week of scorching conditions ahead, Texans are urged to stay safe, stay hydrated, and stay cool amidst this challenging weather phenomenon.
