The National Weather Service Austin/San Antonio office has issued a Heat Advisory for the I-35 corridor and Coastal Plains from noon to 7 p.m. on the 13th. Heat index values are forecast to reach as high as 109°F. This is a forecast that accounts for both temperature and humidity—not an observed high temperature—and RV campers should use it as a reason to identify an air-conditioned place to stay before leaving.
Areas Affected
The advisory includes Austin and San Antonio, along with Georgetown, San Marcos, New Braunfels, Seguin, Bastrop, La Grange, and other communities. It extends broadly from Williamson, Hays, Travis, Bastrop, and Lee counties to Bexar, Comal, Guadalupe, and nearby inland areas.
The greatest danger is expected from noon into the early evening. The National Weather Service warns that high temperatures and humidity may cause heat-related illness and advises moving strenuous outdoor activities to the early morning or evening.
Even with air conditioning running, an RV can take on more indoor heat when doors are opened often or it remains in direct sun for long periods. It is important to confirm in advance whether campground electrical hookups are available and operating, and to identify an indoor place to go if cooling cannot be maintained.
What RV Travelers Need to Know
Tasks that must be done outdoors, such as setting up the site, leveling, and connecting hoses and power, are best completed in the morning. If arriving after noon, take frequent breaks in the shade, drink water, and divide the work so that one person does not push to finish setup alone.
Children and pets should never be left in a parked vehicle or in an RV without confirmed cooling. A belief that it will be only for a short time is not a safety measure. If dizziness, headache, nausea, or severe fatigue develops, stop activity and move to a cool place; call 911 immediately if there is altered consciousness or suspected heat stroke.
The 7 p.m. time is only the scheduled expiration of the advisory; it does not mean temperatures will drop immediately. Check the hourly forecast again before leaving, and make sure indoor cooling and hydration can be maintained overnight. Plans for travel the following day are best made after checking whether the advisory has been extended.
Source: National Weather Service Heat Advisory / National Weather Service heat safety guidance
Photo: Mack Ramirez / Original photo page (Unsplash License)