WEATHER

NWS predicts dangerously hot weekend in San Angelo

Justin Hicks
San Angelo Standard-Times
Get adjusted to the change in weather if you're not familiar. Don't overexert yourself. Drink plenty of fluids. Take frequent breaks in cool places. (Marian Vejcik/Dreamstime/TNS)

With favorite summer activities like the Showdown in San Angelo happening this weekend, a lot of San Angelo residents will doubtlessly be spending a lot of time outside. But the National Weather Service has a warning for those headed outdoors: stay cool and be safe. 

The heat index is predicted to climb dangerously high Saturday and Sunday, according to NWS San Angelo.

A combination of high temperatures and punishing humidity is a real cause for concern, said San Angelo meteorologist Stephen Harrison.  

More:National Weather Service: Expect a hot, dry June in San Angelo

"We have what we call a 'thermal ridge' in the lower layers of the atmosphere which is going to strengthen over the weekend," Harrison said. "We also have high humidity coming in from the south. Those two things are going to bring some pretty big heat."

NWS expects heat index values to measure about 110 degrees for portions of the Concho Valley, Big Country and the Heartland. A strong breeze and clear skies will only exacerbate the heat. 

A heat map issued by the National Weather Service in San Angelo on June 20, 2018 shows extremely hot temperatures in the coming weekend.

Residents should drink plenty of water and spend time indoors to avoid heat stroke and heat exhaustion. 

Here's the forecast through Sunday, according to NWS:

  • Thursday: Sunny and hot, with a high near 98. Heat index values as high as 101. Calm wind becoming east northeast around 5 mph in the afternoon.
  • Friday: Sunny and hot, with a high near 102. South southwest wind 10 to 15 mph.
  • Saturday: Sunny and hot, with a high near 105. Breezy, with a south southwest wind around 20 mph, with gusts as high as 30 mph.
  • Sunday: Sunny and hot, with a high near 103. Breezy, with a south wind 15 to 20 mph, with gusts as high as 30 mph.

More:Fans needed: Hardware store, Salvation Army work to keep residents from overheating

Summer heat and heart health.

Heat-related emergencies

The American Red Cross provides the following tips on heat-related emergencies:

Symptoms

  • Cool, moist, pale or flushed skin
  • Heavy sweating
  • Headache
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Dizziness or loss of consciousness
  • Weakness

What to do 

  • If losing consciousness or vomiting, immediately call 9-1-1
  • Relocate to an air-conditioned or shaded area
  • Slowly drink cool water
  • Apply ice or cold towels to head, neck, groin, wrists, ankles and underarms