Dallas woke up in the steam bath this morning. Skies are clear, and temperatures are already hovering around 77°F, and it only gets rougher from here. Today, the high is expected to reach near 98°F, with heat index values up to 109°F. A Heat Advisory is in effect from noon to 9 p.m. CDT.
Afternoon Heat and Safety
Forecasters say the combo of near 100°F air and thick Gulf humidity will push "feels like" temperatures into the 105 to 110°F range this afternoon, which is squarely in the danger zone if you stay outside too long. According to the National Weather Service Fort Worth, people who work outdoors, older adults, and young children face the highest risk for heat-related illness. Their advice is straightforward: drink plenty of water, avoid strenuous activity during the advisory hours, and take frequent breaks in the shade or air conditioning. If you have to tackle yard work, workouts, or other physical tasks, shift them to early morning or after sunset whenever possible.
Cooling Centers and Help Around Town
The City of Dallas has fired up its Beat the Heat support network so residents can find indoor relief at libraries, recreation centers, and partner sites around town. Per the City of Dallas Beat the Heat information, neighborhood facilities and partner locations are open as cooling centers. One commonly used spot is the West Dallas Multipurpose Center at 2828 Fish Trap Road. If you or someone you know needs a cool place during the day, check the city page for hours or call local non-emergency lines for guidance.
Storms Tonight Into Juneteenth
After the baking daytime heat, the pattern flips late tonight. Showers and thunderstorms are likely after about 1 a.m. tomorrow, with the overnight rain chance sitting around 60%. Expect brief heavy downpours and gusty outflow winds. Forecasters say some storm complexes could drop a few tenths of an inch of rain overnight, with pockets up to about an inch possible Friday night if storms slow down or train over the same areas. Outdoor Juneteenth events should have a backup plan and keep an eye on lightning and sudden wind gusts.
What To Do Now
For commuters, coaches, and anyone running events, the checklist is simple: carry water, schedule outdoor activities for the cooler hours, and secure lightweight items that could get launched by gusty winds. Keep an eye on updated forecasts and radar if you have evening or late-night plans, since the timing can shift and additional advisories, including flash flood or severe thunderstorm statements, are possible if storms organize.
Expect updates if the NWS changes any advisories. Otherwise, look for another hot stretch next Sunday, with gusty southwest winds and a return to upper 90s heat. In short, plan for a one-two punch of dangerous afternoon heat and late-night storms if you are out celebrating Juneteenth.
