Texas heat is taking over World Cup games in Dallas.
Elías Valverde II/The Dallas Morning News
Fans headed to Dallas Stadium or one of Dallas’ plethora of watch parties today for the FIFA World Cup game between England and Croatia must face an additional hurdle beyond ticket woes and transportation headaches: Texas’ extreme heat.
Ahead of Wednesday’s 3 p.m. match between England and Croatia, the National Weather Service’s Fort Worth office issued a heat advisory for all of North and Central Texas that will remain in effect until 9 p.m. Thursday.
Dallas’ nine World Cup games are ongoing through June and July, and temperatures are expected to remain sweltering. Here’s what to know about Texas’ dangerous heat for local FIFA fans and those new to the infamous Texas weather.
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What is the difference between a heat advisory and a heat warning?
Heat advisories are issued by the weather service when the air temperature is forecast to be 103 degrees or higher or the heat index, or “feels-like” temperature, is forecast to be at least 105.
Heat advisories indicate that heat is potentially dangerous but not enough to issue a warning, according to the National Weather Service.
Under a heat advisory, the weather service recommends taking precautions and postponing outdoor activities during the hottest parts of the day.
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Extreme heat warnings are issued when the air temperature is expected to be 105 degrees or higher or when the heat index is expected to be 110 or higher.
Under extreme heat warnings, the weather service encourages staying inside, even at night. If this is not possible, the weather service recommends drinking water and taking breaks frequently.
For both of these alerts, conditions must be expected for two consecutive days.
Related: What’s the criteria for heat advisories and extreme heat warnings in North Texas?
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How can I stay safe in the heat?
World Cup organizers and local first responders have prepared for Texas’ extreme heat via placement of cooling stations, paramedic stations and water stations, The Dallas Morning News previously reported.
There are a number of precautions fans can take to stay safe in the heat. The CDC recommends drinking water, avoiding alcohol and caffeine – which are known to dehydrate – wearing sunscreen and hats, staying in the shade and monitoring for heat-related illnesses.
Related: Here are tips to stay safe at the World Cup during Dallas’ hottest months
What are the signs of heat-related illness?
World cup attendees should monitor for signs of dehydration, heat exhaustion and heat stroke.
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According to the CDC, signs of dehydration include thirst, fatigue, rapid pulse and irritability. Dehydration can typically be overcome by drinking water.
Symptoms of heat exhaustion include dry mouth, dizziness and sweating, the CDC says. To combat heat exhaustion, finding shade and drinking water are encouraged.
Heat stroke is more severe than heat exhaustion. Heat stroke is characterized by a loss in ability to regulate body temperature, requiring hospitalization. According to the CDC, symptoms of heat stroke include red, hot skin and a rapid pulse without sweating. A throbbing headache and confusion may also be present.
Children and older adults are particularly vulnerable to heat-related illness and should be monitored closely.
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Related: Your ultimate guide to dealing with the heat in Dallas-Fort Worth