San Antonio is on high alert as forecasters warn of "extreme" heat risk looming over the Memorial Day weekend. With the National Weather Service cautioning temps to soar into the triple digits, officials are urging locals to prepare for what could be the hottest days of the year. The city, already sweating through a rise in heat-related illnesses, faces a double whammy as humidity levels stick high, making it feel even hotter—up to a sweltering 110 degrees, as noted in a Express News report.
Don't be fooled by partly cloudy skies early this Saturday; the heat is set to punish with vengeance as the day wears on. "Temperatures will be close to 90 degrees at noon, rising to the upper 90s and approaching 100 degrees in the late afternoon," according to the same Express News. Day drinkers are specifically advised to alternate alcoholic drinks with water to guard against dehydration, a particularly sneaky assailant during such festive times.
To combat the oppressive climate, Mario Martinez of Metro Health touted "safety from the extreme heat" as the operative message for the city, as quoted by Fox San Antonio. The city is opening 10 locations from noon to 8 P.M. on Monday as sanctuaries for those needing to escape the searing heat. Dr. Christine Criscuolo Higgins from Christus Santa Rosa urged in a Fox San Antonio interview for people to take breaks and cool off periodically, warning that HRIs are a real threat, especially on blistering days.
Outside workers, the elderly, infants, and also the pets are at heightened risk. Animal Care Services has disseminated tips to keep pets cool, like ensuring they have fresh water and shelter if outdoors. Pets most at risk are the ones with a litany of traits, including those having a short snout or those that are overweight. The agency also urges never leaving pets in parked cars, as temperatures can rocket to life-threatening degrees in just minutes. To spot heat stress in pets, one should watch for signs such as vomiting, excessive panting, and glazed eyes, and seek veterinary help immediately.
As Monday's forecast teases a slim chance of rain, San Antonians are advised to stay vigilant and have contingency plans to move festivities indoors. While severe weather isn't the expectation, the possibility of strong gusts and hail can't be entirely discounted. As for the following week, a slight reprieve is in sight with temperatures expected to dip to the mid-90s, albeit with a chance of isolated thunderstorms, a scenario that offers little comfort to those already battling the heatwave.
