AUSTIN, Texas — With a sold-out showdown between the University of Texas and Ohio State just hours away, thousands of college football fans are gearing up to flood Darell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium. But as excitement builds, first responders are tracking a different opponent: dangerous central Texas heat.

Weather forecasts predict another round of triple-digit temperatures and high humidity for game day, leaving many stadium seats directly exposed to the blazing sun. Following a wave of heat-related medical calls during last week’s season opener against Texas State, Austin-Travis County EMS (ATCEMS) is expanding its presence and urging fans to prepare well before kickoff.

Lessons from Week One

During last week’s game, temperatures reached a scorching 102 degrees. The extreme conditions forced ATCEMS to transport 13 people from the stadium to local hospitals, including at least three patients suffering from heat-related illnesses.

Photos shared on social media platform X showed packed crowds of fans tightly crammed into the stadium’s shaded concourses just to find temporary relief from the sun. ATCEMS Captain Christa Stedman said seeking out those cooler spots is exactly what people should do.

“The best things you can do is move into the shade or the AC if possible and start rehydrating so that you don’t get sicker and get to the point where we have to take you to the hospital,” Stedman said.

EMS Changes the Game Plan

Because of the high risks, first responders are increasing their footprint around the stadium.

“We’re adding some additional people to the roster,” Capt. Stedman explained. “We’re going to have dedicated ambulances, dedicated SRUs, or special response units… as well as our motor medics.”

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Fans Take Precautions

On the UT campus, the countdown to the big game is already bringing high energy. At a Celsius energy drink pop-up event, students lined up to participate in a fitness challenge. UT freshman Lucas Omoke showed off his “Texas strong” spirit by powering through a set of pull-ups despite the intense midday sun.

“This is my first UT game,” Omoke said. “I didn’t get tickets to the Texas State game, but I got tickets for this game, because this game was where it really matters.”

But event organizers kept the focus on safety. GC Morena, an organizer at the pop-up, noted they were keeping crowds cool with free resources.

“We have tons of waters here for everybody free to grab,” Morena said. “We have shaded areas throughout the location, and then we’re also checking in with people to make sure they’re hydrated.”

Students heading to the sunny student section say they are already adjusting their habits.

“Oh it’s hot, I’m sweating like a pig in July, I’ll tell ya,” said UT freshman Jack Essington. “I’m planning on drinking a lot of water tonight in preparation for the game.”

The warning is especially critical for visiting Ohio State fans who may not be accustomed to the intense Texas climate. Buckeyes fans Betsey and Kevin Hampton said they are already modifying their game-day traditions to cope with the weather.

“Extra hydration and staying in the shade, and we’re going to try waiting as long as we can to go down and tailgate,” Kevin said.

Pre-Game Safety Guidelines

Capt. Stedman strongly warns that common tailgate drinks can accelerate the dangers of heat exhaustion. Both alcohol and caffeine dehydrate the body much faster and can severely impair your body’s ability to naturally regulate its temperature.

To stay safe during tomorrow’s game, ATCEMS recommends the following tips:

Start early: Begin drinking water the night before the game and continue throughout the day.

Dress smart: Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing and a wide-brimmed hat.

Take breaks: Seek out shade or air conditioning before you start feeling sick.

Know the warning signs: If someone becomes confused, faints, or stops sweating completely despite the heat, call 911 immediately.