Your ultimate guide to dealing with the heat in Dallas-Fort Worth

Temperatures are expected to rise this weekend with the heat index hitting triple-digit levels in North Texas, and along with all the fun summer brings, it’s important to know how to stay safe when weather conditions are dangerously hot.

Even when temperatures are projected to hit the lower-to-mid 90s, humidity can make the weather feel many degrees hotter, said Allison Prater, a meteorologist for National Weather Service in Fort Worth. Humidity affects our ability to regulate body temperature, Prater said.

If the temperature is just shy of triple digits, high moisture in the air can drive what is called the “heat index,” or what Prater described as the “feels like” temperature, into triple-digit levels. The hottest times of the day are during the late afternoon hours, Prater said.

“That’s why the heat is so dangerous with high humidity,” she added.

The heat index is a major factor in determining whether national weather officials issue heat advisories, Prater said.

Additionally, a large amount of paved surfaces can cause higher temperatures in urban areas like Dallas and Fort Worth.

Here are some of the things you should remember during Texas’ summer months.

How can I stay safe in the sun?

• Drink water. Most adults need to drink between nine and 13 cups of water throughout the day — about two full water bottles. With high temperatures and exercise, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says water and electrolyte loss from perspiration means that your body needs more water to stay healthy. Drinks like coffee and alcohol are diuretics and can increase your risk of dehydration.
• Know the signs of dehydration. Fatigue, irritability, rapid pulse, sunken eyes and high thirst are all clear signs of dehydration, according to the CDC. Most cases of dehydration are mild and can be relieved by drinking water at home. In extreme cases, the CDC recommends seeking intravenous fluids from a health care provider.
• Wear sunscreen. Ultraviolet rays from the sun cause sunburns and can increase your risk for skin cancer over time, the CDC says. Wearing sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher and regular reapplication are the best to keep your skin this summer. Hats, pants and long-sleeved shirts can also limit your exposure to UV rays.
• Stay in the shade. Sitting in shady areas when outdoors can ease the sun’s impact on your skin, slow dehydration and keep you cool.

What’s the difference between heat exhaustion and heatstroke?

Prolonged periods of exposure to extreme heat are dangerous and even deadly. Here’s how to spot heat-related illnesses.

• Heat exhaustion: Symptoms include dry mouth, dizziness and excessive sweating. If heat exhaustion isn’t treated, it can progress to heatstroke.
• Heatstroke: More severe than heat exhaustion, heatstroke occurs when the body’s temperature rises rapidly. The body’s sweating mechanism fails and the body loses the ability to regulate its own temperature. Symptoms include red, hot skin but no sweating and a rapid pulse, according to the CDC. Heatstroke requires hospitalization.

It’s hot outside. How do I keep my pets safe?

• Provide pets with regular water and indoor access. Animals should be given continuous access to water, especially during the summer months. When dehydrated, dogs and cats have a harder time safely regulating their body temperature. The United States Department of Agriculture says that dogs should not be left outside above 85 degrees for more than four hours and should have access to shade enclosures.
• Know the signs of heat stress. Animals experiencing heat stress will exhibit symptoms like panting, excessive thirst, weakness and anxiety. If symptoms escalate, USDA recommends taking your pet to their veterinarian.
• Don’t leave your dog in a hot car. Animals can die of heat exhaustion in hot cars, even if air conditioning systems are left on. It is safest to take your dog with you to your destination or leave them at home.

How do I keep my garden plants happy this summer?

• Water consistently. The Dallas Arboretum recommends watering your plants early in the morning when temperatures are the coolest. In hot temperatures, water can evaporate. Make sure your plants are absorbing water — cover roots with moist soil, compost and mulch can keep plant roots hydrated and safe from the sun.
• Watch your potted plants. Flowers, vegetables and herbs in smaller containers require more frequent watering. During the hottest hours of the day, you can also move your potted plants indoors to prevent them from drying out in the heat.
• Do your research. Different plant species need varied amounts of water and sun exposure. Botanicals that are native to Texas require a less rigorous watering schedule. Read about the different plants in your garden or ask an expert at your local plant store about how best to care for unique species.

How to keep your home cool and electricity costs down

Keeping your thermostat down all summer can have two effects in Texas: soaring electricity bills and pressure on the state’s grid.

The Electric Reliability Council of Texas, the operator of Texas’ power grid, has been under heightened scrutiny since the 2021 winter storm blackouts led to the death of at least 246 Texans. In past summers, ERCOT has issued calls for energy conservation to prevent such blackouts.

On the consumer side, Texas electricity rates surged over 70% from the previous year in 2022. Here’s how to keep your home cool and energy bill down with tips from previous Dallas Morning News summer coverage:

• If no one will be home for more than four hours, set the temperature to 4 degrees higher when you leave your residence.
• Turn your thermostat to 78 degrees or higher.
• Use blinds or curtains to block sunlight.
• Set ceiling fan blades to spin counterclockwise to circulate cool air.
• Avoid using large appliances such as dishwashers, washing machines and dryers. Use these appliances in the early morning and evening.
• If you don’t need something, turn it off and unplug it.

Where to find cooling centers

Those needing some relief from the heat can use any City of Dallas public facility including recreation centers and libraries, according to the city’s website.

The facilities are available during regular business hours, which may vary by location. Hours and addresses for the Dallas public libraries and Dallas recreation centers can be found online.

Last year, DART also offered extended cooling centers.

Assistance for unsheltered individuals can be found through the Office of Homeless Solutions.