El Paso stepped straight into summer Tuesday, with clear skies and the kind of triple-digit heat that makes the pavement shimmer. Thermometers are climbing through the morning and are expected to top out near 102°F this afternoon, kicking off one of the first sustained 100-degree runs of the season. Residents are urged to ease up on strenuous outdoor plans during the peak heat, and to check on neighbors, pets, and anyone who might be especially vulnerable.
Afternoon Heat
Skies stay mostly sunny through the afternoon, with a light southeast breeze around 6 to 9 mph and only a slim chance of any rain to break the heat. The most punishing stretch runs from late morning through mid-afternoon, when it could feel like the upper 90s on the heat index, according to the National Weather Service El Paso.
Where To Cool Off
The City of El Paso has opened its recreation centers and public libraries as cooling centers, and malls along with other air-conditioned public spots are fair game for anyone trying to escape the heat. If you need help finding relief, call 2-1-1 to locate the nearest open site and check on any program eligibility. A full list of city cooling centers and their hours is posted in a City of El Paso press release.
Midweek Outlook
The heat will keep building on Wednesday and Thursday, with highs expected to hover near 103°F. Forecasters say heat advisories might be needed for lowland neighborhoods by midweek as a strong subtropical ridge holds firm over the region and keeps most spots dry. Southerly moisture could sneak back in late in the week, which would bring a shot at isolated mountain storms and a small bump in late-week rain chances. For a deeper dive into the pattern, check out how heat cranks up and storms pop, as per Hoodline.
