Dangerous Heat over the South-Central and Southwest U.S. Through Next Week

Dangerous heat persists across the Desert Southwest through this weekend and across the Southern Plains and Lower Mississippi Valley through at least the middle of next week. Numerous daily record high temperatures are expected through at least Tuesday for much of Texas and Oklahoma as well as portions of Louisiana, New Mexico, and Arizona. Read More >

Click a location below for detailed forecast.

Last Map Update: Fri, Aug 21, 2026 at 3:48:24 pm CDT

Watches, Warnings & Advisories

Zoom Out

National Weather Service Austin/San Antonio, TX

National Weather Service Houston/Galveston, TX

National Weather Service Lake Charles, LA

Fire Warning

Extreme Heat Warning

Severe Thunderstorm Watch

Heat Advisory

Air Quality Alert

Hazardous Weather Outlook

Extreme Heat Warning and Heat Advisory

Elevated Fire Weather Threat Continues

Hot Rest of Today

This Weekend: Hot with Low Storm Chances

Above Normal Temperatures Continue Next Week

Help Prevent Wildfires

Extreme Heat Safety

An Extreme Heat Warning for most of North Texas and a Heat Advisory for Central Texas both remain in effect. Remember to stay hydrated, and take frequent breaks in the a/c if weekend outdoor activities are planned.

With hot and mostly dry conditions expected amidst extremely dry vegetation, our elevated fire weather threat across the region will persist through much of this upcoming week. Afternoon humidity will drop to between 20-35% for much of the region. Make sure to avoid any outdoor activities that could produce fire starts!

The rest of this afternoon will be hot, with highs in the upper 90s to around 108. Afternoon heat indices will also rise up to 109 degrees in some areas, so make sure to stay cool and hydrated. There is a low chance for isolated storms in East Texas this afternoon, and threats include gusty downburst winds and lightning.

Exceptionally hot weather will persist throughout the weekend, with afternoon temperatures climbing well into the triple digits. In addition, isolated storms may develop throughout the day on Saturday, particularly near the Red River and north of I-20. Some of these storms could become strong, producing gusty downburst winds and frequent lightning, making outdoor some outdoor activities like boating hazardous.

Temperatures will remain well above normal next week due to a persistent strong ridge of high pressure overhead. The hot and dry conditions will keep the grass fire threat going. Fortunately, there will be a slight chance of rain by midweek.

Here are some helpful tips and resources to help prevent wildfires. With the elevated fire threat persisting, make sure to avoid outdoor activities that could ignite grass fires!

Heat can escalate quickly. Warm temperatures can quickly become dangerous. Heat is one of the most deadly weather hazards - don't underestimate it. Never leave people or pets alone in a car. Drink plenty of water, even if you don't feel thirsty. Wear loose-fitting, light-colored clothing. Spend time in air conditioning and in the shade.