Dallas wakes up cloudy and sticky on this Monday, with temperatures already hovering around 82°F at area stations early this morning. That relatively mild start will not stick around long. Skies are expected to clear and the high will surge to about 98°F today, with heat index values pushing into the low 100s. South winds will run a steady 10 to 15 mph with frequent gusts near 30 mph, which will make it feel even hotter and could give tents and awnings a real workout.
Afternoon Heat And What To Expect
Sun and dry air take over through the afternoon, and most neighborhoods should hit their peak heat between roughly 1 and 5 p.m. That is when temperatures top out near 98°F and heat indices climb toward 100 to 105°F. In that kind of heat, anyone working outside or doing strenuous activities runs a higher risk of heat-related illness, so build in water breaks, shade time, and shorter shifts where you can. For county-by-county details and later updates, check the forecast from the NWS Fort Worth.
Afternoon Winds Pick Up
South winds around 10 to 15 mph with gusts up to about 30 mph are expected through the afternoon and into the evening, adding to the overall heat and kicking up some occasional dust. Those gusty spells can knock over unsecured yard items and buffet lightweight canopies at outdoor gatherings, so it is a good idea to tie down or take down temporary structures where possible. Winds should ease after late evening, but overnight lows will stay warm in the upper 70s.
Holiday Heat And Local Resources
The warm pattern hangs on through the Fourth of July stretch, with mid to upper 90s likely and the potential for triple-digit readings on Friday and Saturday. Rain chances stay low through the holiday weekend, so outdoor plans probably will not get help from any cooling showers. If you need relief from the heat, the City of Dallas' Beat the Heat program lists cooling centers and hours, see City of Dallas Beat the Heat for locations.
Quick Tips
Drink plenty of water, skip or scale back strenuous work during peak afternoon heat, and check on neighbors, older adults, and pets. Never leave children or animals in parked cars, even for a short time, and move heavy outdoor activities to early morning or after sunset. If you or someone nearby shows signs of heat exhaustion or heat stroke, seek medical attention right away.
