AUSTIN, Texas — Central Texas is bracing for an intense early-season heat wave that could bring the hottest May temperature ever recorded in Austin. With forecasts calling for multiple days of triple-digit highs, the KVUE Weather Team has issued Weather Impact Alert Days for Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday.
The National Weather Service (NWS) has also issued a Heat Advisory for Tuesday and Wednesday, effective from 1 p.m. to 9 p.m., citing dangerous daytime temperatures across the region.
Hottest May Day on Record?
Austin is on track to experience its third earliest triple-digit day in history, with Wednesday potentially reaching a record-setting 105°F. If reached, this would mark the highest May temperature ever recorded in the city.
“This is a significant stretch of summerlike weather for Central Texas, and heat precautions should not be taken lightly,” the KVUE Weather Team cautioned.
Forecast models suggest some Hill Country areas could see highs near 110°F, pushing heat levels well above normal for this time of year.
Heat Timeline and Temperature Outlook
The heat wave will begin ramping up Tuesday morning, with temperatures rising quickly into the mid-90s by noon. Afternoon highs across the Austin metro and surrounding areas will range from 100°F to 108°F.
Though these temperatures are extreme, the dry nature of the air mass will keep humidity low, meaning heat index values (or “feels-like” temperatures) won’t spike as high as they would during more humid periods.
- Tuesday: Highs between 100–108°F, low humidity
- Wednesday: Projected high of 105°F in Austin, possibly 110°F in outlying areas
- Thursday–Weekend: Continued heat with temperatures staying near or above 100°F
Extended Heat Without Rain
Unfortunately, no rain relief is expected in the coming 7 to 10 days. May is typically one of Austin’s wettest months, offering a buffer before summer drought conditions set in. But this year, forecasts remain dry, exacerbating drought concerns heading into the hotter months.
“This extended dry heat is particularly concerning for May, when we rely on rainfall to replenish soil moisture and water sources,” said a forecaster with the National Weather Service Austin/San Antonio office.
Health and Safety Concerns
With extreme heat building in so early, local officials and meteorologists are urging residents to take precautions to avoid heat-related illness.
Tips to Stay Safe During Extreme Heat:
- Avoid strenuous outdoor activities during the hottest parts of the day (10 a.m.–6 p.m.)
- Stay hydrated, drinking water regularly even if you’re not thirsty
- Seek air-conditioned environments, such as libraries, malls, or official cooling centers
- Check on vulnerable populations, including the elderly, children, and pets
- Never leave children or pets in a parked vehicle, even briefly
Infrastructure and Fire Risk
The combination of dry air and excessive heat could also elevate wildfire risks across Central Texas. Officials are monitoring conditions closely and may issue Red Flag Warnings if vegetation dries out and wind speeds increase.
Additionally, prolonged heat waves often strain power grids, especially when air conditioning use surges. Energy officials are urging residents to conserve electricity during peak demand hours where possible.
Climate Context: A Growing Trend
This early and severe heat wave fits into a broader pattern of climate-related weather extremes. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the last two years—2023 and 2024—shattered global heat records, and 2025 is shaping up to follow the same trend.
“Heat waves are becoming more frequent, more intense, and longer-lasting due to climate change,” NOAA reports in its most recent global climate summary.
Austin’s current streak of extreme temperatures is expected to become more common in future decades, especially without significant reductions in greenhouse gas emissions.
Final Forecast Outlook
Austin residents should prepare for a prolonged stretch of record-setting heat, with no rain and no cooldown in sight. City officials and weather experts emphasize that preparation is key to minimizing health risks during this dangerous heat wave.
The KVUE Weather Team will continue to issue updates and monitor conditions throughout the week.
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