With highs expected in the triple-digits all this week, memories reemerge of the 40 consecutive days of 100 degree temperatures last summer.
The streak ran from July 2 to August 10, ending just two days shy of the all-time record set in 1980.
With the heat come risks for all citizens, especially the young and elderly.
"Yes it's Texas, yes it's summer, and it's going to be hot," says Mark Fox with the National Weather Service in Fort Worth. "But please do not minimize this threat. This is a dangerous time of year. More people die from heat-related illnesses and heat stoke and heat exhaustion than die from tornadoes or floods every single year."
Multiple heat-related deaths have already been reported this year due to children being left in a hot car. The National Weather Service reminds you to Beat the Heat, Check the Backseat, noting that temperatures inside a vehicle can rise 20 degrees in as little as 10 minutes, even when outside air temperatures are in the 70s.
Fox added, "It's just one of those things that you cannot go along your daily life just thinking 'oh this is just another day.' Just realize the heat is bad. Take the extra precautions. Wear light-fitting clothing, light-colored clothing, and drink plenty of water."
You’re also advised to survey outdoor conditions for your pets during these hot summer months.
The Frank Barchard Memorial Animal Shelter, a no-kill shelter based in Wolfe City, is asking for donations to help purchase additional carports to provide more shade for the dogs.
Shelter President Jodi McIntier says, "Every year we have added something to help keep the dogs cool in the summer, but this year we have got to add something a little bigger. Our hope is that you might want to help us keep the dogs cool by donating to the cost of purchasing the carports."
Information is available at 903-496-2412 or by emailing commercepets@yahoo.com.
