Texas authorities reported that 13 people have died as a result of the extreme heat wave that the state has been experiencing in recent weeks. Hospitals are experiencing significantly more emergency room visits compared to the same time last year. In the last week, there were 837 heat-related emergency visits per 100,000 inhabitants.
Another hot day is in store as a Heat Advisory remains in effect through at least this evening, but will likely need to be extended into the weekend. High temperatures continue to top out near 100°F with heat index values in the range of 105-110°F. 🥵 #TXwx #HOUwx #BCSwx #GLSwx pic.twitter.com/SmnekdlUM0
— NWS Houston (@NWSHouston) June 29, 2023
10 of the 13 deceased were in Webb County
The most affected county is Webb County, where 10 of the 13 people died. Although these very high temperatures are not completely uncommon in the south of the country, it is unusual to reach these temperatures this early in the summer.
On Monday, Laredo and San Angelo tied their all-time record-high temperatures at 115 and 111 degrees Fahrenheit, respectively. On Wednesday, Corpus Christi went up to 107 degrees. It was 108 degrees in Austin and 109 degrees in Houston.
Other states affected by heat
Although Texas is the most affected state, others, such as Oklahoma and New Mexico, are also experiencing triple-digit temperatures. In Mexico, authorities reported that more than 100 people have died from the heat so far this year.
Please see our latest key messages for the ongoing southern U.S. #heatwave that is expected to slide eastward this weekend before relaxing early next week. Remember to follow proper heat safety, which includes looking out for vulnerable individuals and pets. pic.twitter.com/0Uk91fmTDZ
— NWS Weather Prediction Center (@NWSWPC) June 29, 2023
