It is a mostly clear and sticky Monday morning in Austin, July 20, with temperatures sitting around 77°F and a dew point near 74°F that keeps the air feeling downright heavy. A quick warm-up is on tap, with official forecasts calling for a high near 97°F this afternoon and heat-index values pushing about 101. Floodwaters from earlier storms are slowly receding across the region, but several rivers and creeks remain elevated, especially stretches of the Nueces, Frio, San Antonio and lower Rio Grande basins, so local officials continue to urge people to steer clear of flooded roads and riverbanks.
Afternoon Heat And The Next Few Days
According to the National Weather Service Austin/San Antonio, highs should reach near 99°F on Tuesday, July 21, and climb to about 101°F on Wednesday, July 22, with heat-index values topping 100°F on multiple afternoons. Forecasters say Wednesday could trigger heat headlines for parts of the region depending on dew points. Winds will stay on the light side, which means little real relief during peak daytime hours. If you can, shift strenuous outdoor work or workouts to the early morning or later evening, and keep an eye on updated forecasts before committing to long stints outside.
Flood Recovery And Local Resources
Runoff from the recent storms will keep sliding downstream, and river levels should continue a slow improvement. Even so, isolated rises are still possible. The National Weather Service has highlighted a limited additional rise along the Nueces River near Asherton today. For the latest on local advisories, closures and information on cooling and emergency resources, check the City of Austin emergency hub. If you encounter standing water on the road, do not drive through it, since many flood injuries and vehicle losses happen when people try to cross flooded stretches.
Stay Cool And Plan Ahead
Residents are urged to limit outdoor exertion between late morning and early evening, carry water and check on elderly neighbors or anyone who may not have reliable air conditioning. Public indoor spots, including libraries, community centers and shopping malls, can provide some temporary relief from the heat, and local organizations may open additional cooling sites if conditions worsen. If you live near creeks or rivers, keeping a small emergency kit handy and following barricades and closures remain basic but important safety moves.
Watch The Gulf Later This Week
Meteorologists are also keeping tabs on Tropical Depression Two in the northeastern Gulf. The system could move toward the upper Texas coast by Thursday, July 23, or Friday, July 24, although its exact track and intensity remain uncertain. Any tropical influence would change the rainfall and river outlook quickly, so officials advise staying tuned to updates through midweek. We will update readers if new local watches or warnings are issued.
