SAN ANTONIO – We are facing the hottest and most dangerous weather of the week as intense heat spreads across the region. A Heat Advisory remains in effect for much of the rest of South-Central Texas through Thursday evening.
Temperatures Wednesday will climb into the upper 90s and lower 100s, but it’s the humidity that makes the day especially dangerous. Heat index values – or what it actually feels like outside – could reach 108 to 112 degrees across much of the advisory area.
Here in San Antonio, we will see a high near 101 degrees, with heat index values approaching 109 degrees during the afternoon.
Why Today Is Different
Every summer brings triple-digit temperatures to South Texas, but today’s weather combines three factors that significantly increase the risk of heat-related illness:
Air temperatures around 100High humidity that limits the body’s ability to cool through sweatingLight winds providing very little natural relief
Those conditions make prolonged outdoor activity dangerous, especially during the afternoon.
The Most Dangerous Time
The highest risk for heat illness will occur between 1 p.m. and 7 p.m. Anyone working outside should take frequent cooling breaks, drink water before becoming thirsty, and avoid strenuous activity whenever possible.
Children, older adults, people with chronic health conditions and those without dependable air conditioning face the greatest risk.
Don’t Forget Your Vehicle
One of today’s biggest dangers isn’t on the weather map, it’s inside parked vehicles. Vehicle interiors can become deadly in only a few minutes during extreme heat.
Always check the back seat before locking your vehicle, and never leave a child, vulnerable adult or pet inside a parked car.
Rain Chances Remain Low
Most of South-Central Texas will stay dry today. An isolated shower or thunderstorm cannot be ruled out near the northern Hill Country or portions of the Coastal Plains later today, but the overwhelming majority of the region will experience hot, sunny conditions.
Looking Ahead
Thursday remains very hot, although temperatures may ease slightly.
Forecasters are also watching Tropical Storm Bertha, which could bring scattered showers and gusty winds to the Coastal Plains Thursday night into Friday. Current forecast guidance indicates the greatest impacts should remain east of the Interstate 35 corridor.
Bottom Line
Today’s weather isn’t just uncomfortable—it’s potentially dangerous.
If you have outdoor plans, finish them early, stay hydrated, take frequent breaks and check on friends, family members and neighbors who may be vulnerable to the heat.