Dallas is waking up to clear skies Thursday before temperatures surge toward 99 degrees, with heat index values reaching 103. The hot pattern will hold through the weekend, with highs near 100 expected Friday, Saturday and Sunday.
Ozone Alert Adds Another Health Concern
The Dallas-Fort Worth area is under an Ozone Action Day Thursday as atmospheric conditions favor higher ozone pollution. The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality recommends reducing driving, avoiding idling and conserving energy where possible; the alert is scheduled to run through Thursday evening.
People spending time outdoors should plan demanding activities for early morning or after sunset, drink plenty of water and take breaks in air conditioning. Children, older adults and anyone with breathing problems may be especially sensitive to poor air quality and extreme heat.
Mostly Dry Weather Through Sunday
Only very isolated thundershowers are possible east of Interstate 35 Thursday afternoon, with a 10% chance of rain in the Dallas forecast. Otherwise, skies should stay mostly sunny, with south to southeast winds generally between 5 and 10 mph.
Friday will be sunny and near 100 degrees, followed by another 100-degree day Saturday and Sunday. The National Weather Service in Fort Worth says elevated grass-fire concerns will continue into the weekend, particularly along and west of the Interstate 35 corridor; residents should use extra caution with anything that could spark a fire.
Small Cooldown Arrives Next Week
A slight shift arrives Monday and Tuesday, when highs ease into the mid to upper 90s and rain chances rise to about 20%. A few showers or thunderstorms could develop, but widespread soaking rain is not expected, and Wednesday is forecast to remain mostly sunny near 96 degrees.
For the official air-quality guidance, see the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality. The latest forecast discussion is available from the National Weather Service in Fort Worth.
