Austin woke up Thursday to mostly clear, sticky skies and a sultry start in the mid-80s, with early readings around 85°F after an overnight low near 83°F. A Heat Advisory blankets much of the metro through 8 p.m. Thursday, and forecasters say the afternoon high will push near 102°F with a heat index that could feel more like 109°F.
Afternoon Heat
The worst of the heat is locked in from late morning into early evening, so outdoor plans between about noon and 6 p.m. will feel especially punishing. According to the National Weather Service, highs will reach near 102°F today, with heat index readings up to 109°F and northeast winds around 5 to 10 mph. The advisory notes that the combination of high temperatures and humidity may trigger heat-related illnesses, especially for people without reliable access to cooling.
Heat Safety
City officials are urging residents to spend the peak heat hours in air-conditioned spaces, drink plenty of water, and check on older neighbors and anyone with medical vulnerabilities. Cooling centers are open at select parks and library locations during normal hours; the City’s heat awareness resources list specific sites and practical tips. City of Austin materials also highlight warning signs of heat illness and offer guidance tailored to outdoor workers.
Bertha's Influence And Tonight's Gusts
Tropical Storm Bertha is spinning across the Gulf, and while most of its rain should hug the coast, forecasters say its circulation could nudge some wind into Central Texas tonight. The NWS forecast flags a slight chance of spotty tropical downpours after about 1 a.m., with east-northeast winds of 5 to 30 mph and gusts up to 40 mph overnight. New rainfall amounts are expected to stay under a tenth of an inch, so a few isolated gusty showers are possible, but widespread flooding or heavy rain in the Austin metro is not on the table.
We covered the recent heat surge in a July 22 story; this update zeroes in on today’s timing and the small overnight wind bump tied to Bertha’s outer circulation. Read our earlier report on how triple digits roar back for more background.
