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last wk.

Early-Season Heat Wave Grips Central and South Texas With 100°F Heat Index

Two cold fronts are forecast to bring cooler air late week.

Shown are the potential heat index values at 4 p.m. Sunday, according to the National Blend of Models.
The threat of severe weather in Central Texas on Sunday will be west of Austin, mainly in the Hill Country. 
Image
On hot days, squirrels like this critter in the Circle C Ranch neighborhood in Southwest Austin, often lie on their bellies and extend their limbs to dissipate body heat. 

Overview

  • The hottest stretch arrives Monday and Tuesday, with highs in the mid-90s and heat index readings near or above 100°F from Austin to San Antonio and Houston.
  • The National Weather Service flags a moderate early-season heat risk for Central Texas, urging people not yet acclimated to limit strenuous activity and stay hydrated.
  • Rain chances stay low, yet any storm that breaks the cap could turn strong with large hail or damaging winds, with the best chance west of Austin and across the Hill Country.
  • A layer of warm air called a cap is blocking most storm growth as a west-to-east dry line separates hot, humid air from drier air across Central and South Texas.
  • Forecasts call for a weak front Wednesday–Thursday and a stronger front Friday into Saturday that should cool highs into the 70s and raise rain and thunderstorm chances.