Millions in danger as power outages, 106-degree heat index hit Houston one day after Beryl
Alexis SimmermanA heat index as high as 106℉ poses a danger to the millions left without power in the Houston area.
As authorities and residents begin to recover from the deadly storm, they face sweltering heat on Tuesday as a combination of sunny skies and lingering moisture will push heat index values up to 106℉ across southeast Texas, including Houston, where hundreds of thousands are without power, according to the National Weather Service.
Live updates:Beryl recovery begins as heat looms; millions without power; at least 8 dead
What is a heat advisory?
A heat advisory is issued within 12 hours of the onset of dangerous heat conditions, according to the National Weather Service. Nationally, heat advisories are generally prompted when the maximum heat index temperature is expected to be in the triple digits for at least two days.
Because Texas is no stranger to heat, heat advisories in the Lone Star state typically require a heat index above 108℉. However, current conditions in southeast Texas add risks to this heat. Around two million customers along the mid-to-upper coast and in East Texas have been left without power and air conditioning.
Safety tips: Stay cool without power
It's important to abide by safety measures under a heat advisory, especially when there is no power to run air conditioning. Excessive heat poses higher risks for vulnerable populations, such as young children and infants; older adults; those with chronic medical conditions; and pregnant persons.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend the following safety tips for those without power:
- Drink more water than usual, and don’t wait until you’re thirsty to drink.
- Use a buddy system- check on a friend or neighbor, and have someone do the same for you.
- Take cool showers or baths.
- Use your stove and oven less to maintain a cooler temperature in your home.
The CDC also urges people to watch for symptoms of heat-related illnesses.
Cooling centers in Houston area
Several cooling centers in and around Houston will be open from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday, amid the heat advisory.
The following centers will be available:
- Bayland Community Center: 6400 Bissonnet Street, Houston
- Radack Community Center: 18650 Clay Road, Houston
- Weekley Community Center: 8440 Greenhouse Road, Cypress
MAP: See Texas power outages
Texas weather watches and warnings
— USA TODAY contributed to this report.