Austin is facing another prolonged stretch of near-triple-digit heat, with Thursday's forecast calling for afternoon temperatures around 100 degrees and a heat index that could approach 110. Morning temperatures are expected to start in the upper 70s before the most intense heat develops during the afternoon.
Spotty storms will not bring much relief
Partly sunny conditions and light east-northeast winds are expected Thursday. Showers and thunderstorms may develop during the afternoon and evening, particularly near the I-35 corridor, but the forecast indicates limited coverage rather than a widespread rain event. Friday is expected to remain sunny and near 100 degrees, with heat-index values around 104. The latest Austin-area warning summary lists no watches, warnings or advisories; conditions can change, so residents should check the National Weather Service Austin/San Antonio forecast before making outdoor plans.
The weekend offers little temperature relief
Temperatures are expected to remain above average through the weekend. Overnight lows in the mid-70s will limit relief after sunset. Rain chances are expected to remain low through most of the weekend, with only a limited possibility of isolated activity in the broader region.
A slight chance of afternoon showers and thunderstorms returns Monday, but the high is still forecast near 99 degrees. Tuesday and Wednesday are also expected to remain close to 99 degrees, making the immediate outlook one of persistent heat rather than a meaningful cooldown.
Austin has seen more triple-digit heat in recent climate normals
This forecast fits a recurring pattern in Austin. KXAN reports that the city averaged about 16 days at or above 100 degrees per year from 1898 through 2024, compared with 29 days per year during the 1991–2020 climate-normal period. Austin reached 100 degrees 90 times in 2011, including a high of 112 degrees on Aug. 28. Those figures provide historical context, but they do not mean this weekend will set a record.
Health and preparedness concerns extend beyond the forecast
Austin Public Health says heat-related-illness emergency-room visits in 2026 are higher than during the milder summer of 2025, although current levels remain within the range seen in other recent years in Austin and Travis County. The available update does not provide a single recent-year total for heat-related illnesses or deaths.
The City of Austin Office of the City Auditor says the city has developed extreme-heat preparedness plans and strategies but faces challenges in evaluating progress, funding key activities and coordinating across departments. Separately, the city's 2024 assessment of its urban forest says almost 90% of tree species are moderately to highly vulnerable to future climate conditions, underscoring the importance of shade while also showing that natural cooling resources face longer-term pressure.
Where residents can seek relief
Austin Emergency Management says Austin Public Library branches and Austin Parks recreation centers may serve as cooling centers during normal operating hours. Residents should check AustinTexas.gov/alerts for current locations and hours. When cooling centers have extended hours, CapMetro may provide complimentary rides for people who need transportation and cannot pay the fare.
People should limit strenuous activity during the hottest part of the day, drink water regularly and take breaks in air conditioning or shade. The Texas Department of Insurance recommends that employers limit strenuous outdoor work during peak heat hours, generally 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., and provide frequent rest and water breaks in shaded or air-conditioned areas. Older adults, young children, outdoor workers and people without reliable cooling face particular risks.
