HURRICANE

Millions still without power as temps rise in Houston. Here's how to stay cool

Portrait of Bryce Buyakie Bryce Buyakie
USA TODAY NETWORK

Temperatures are expected to rise to dangerous levels in and around Houston on Tuesday, one day after Tropical Storm Beryl's strong winds and rain, including at least one tornado, left over 2 million people without power and air conditioning.

Temperatures are forecasted to reach the lower 90s with a heat index of up to 106 degrees, according to the National Weather Service in Houston.

A heat advisory for Tuesday is in effect for a slew of counties and cities around Houston from Crockett in the north to Wharton in the south, the NWS reported.

CenterPoint Energy said it could have energy restored to 1 million customers by the end of day Tuesday, according to a CenterPoint news release issued Monday night.

This comes one day after Tropical Storm Beryl barrelled through the region, first as a Category 1 hurricane. Multiple people were killed in Texas, including a Houston Police Department civilian staff member, while 11 people died in countries first hit by the storm.

Harris County, Texas power outage map

How to stay cool without power in Texas

Roughly 1,300 Americans die every year from extreme heat, according to the Environmental Protection Agency, so it's important to identify the signs of heat stroke and keep cool.

Here's what the NWS recommends for Texans:

  • Drink plenty of water.
  • Limit outdoor activities.
  • Work early or late in the day to avoid mid-day heat.
  • Wear light clothing.
  • Wear sunscreen.
  • Check on family members, friends and pets.

Other ways to stay cool:

  • Use water-misting spray bottles.
  • Dip a towel or bandana in water and wrap it around your head.
  • Rinse off, jump in a pool or dump water on your head to bring down body temperatures.
  • Heat rises, so sleep on the lowest floor or lowest point to avoid seeing in the hottest rooms.

After the power comes back on

How to stay safe when the power turns back on:

  • Wait a few minutes before you turn any major appliances back on.
  • Throw away any food exposed to temperatures 40 degrees or higher for two hours or more, or that has an unusual odor, color or texture.
  • Dispose of any medication that needs refrigeration, unless the label says otherwise. Check with your healthcare professional or pharmacy to replace it.