What is the danger?

Ready.gov defines extreme heat as "a period of high heat and humidity with temperatures above 90 degrees for at least two to three days." The National Weather Service (NWS) is warning of danger from extreme heat in the Greater Houston area the weekend of June 10th. Temperatures will reach or exceed 100 degrees beginning on Friday, June 10. Exposure to extreme heat can cause heat stroke, exhaustion, and even death.  

What you should do:

Heat related illnesses are preventable. The Harris County Office of Homeland Security & Emergency Management urges all residents to take simple steps to keep themselves safe.

1. Stay in air conditioning as much as possible. Shopping malls, libraries, and other public, indoor spaces are great places to go to beat the heat when needed. The City of Houston has also set up cooling centers; view a map here.
2. Wear light colored, lightweight, and loose fitting clothing.
3. If you must be outdoors, STAY HYDRATED and avoid heavy labor and other physical activities. Take frequent breaks.
4. ‍NEVER leave children or pets unattended in cars or other vehicles. Temperatures rise quickly and can reach deadly levels in minutes.

Common symptoms of heat related sickness include headaches, dizziness, nausea, and loss of consciousness, passing out. Residents can click here to find more information. Seek medical care or call 911 immediately if you suspect someone is suffering from a heat related illness.

Warnings and advisories from NWS and other authorities are likely over the next few days. Residents should follow advice from official sources to stay safe.

Addition information on heat related illness and other summer safety tips available here. You can sign up for ReadyHarris Alerts as well as ReadyHarris Accessible Alerts, in American Sign Language and other formats. 

Also for those that may be homeless, in transitional housing or not have working A/C Units, the city has set up cooling centers, below is the link to locate one: