Central Texas braces for triple-digit heat index, storm chances

Central Texans can expect another day of dangerous heat and humidity Sunday before a weak weather system brings a chance of showers and thunderstorms to begin the workweek.

Morning temperatures started in the upper 70s across much of the region, with some outlying communities waking to lows in the 70s. Forecasters expect afternoon highs to reach the upper 90s, while high humidity will push heat index values well into the triple digits.

Meteorologists said dew points in the 70s will make conditions feel significantly hotter than the actual air temperature, creating "feel-like values" above 100 degrees across much of Central Texas.

Residents planning to spend time outdoors for the remainder of the Independence Day holiday weekend are encouraged to stay hydrated, take frequent breaks in the shade and limit strenuous activity during the hottest part of the afternoon.

A weak weather boundary is forecast to move south into the region late Sunday, bringing the first opportunity for rain in several days.

The Hill Country has the greatest chance of seeing thunderstorms develop between about 11 p.m. Sunday and 1 a.m. Monday. Some storms could produce "heavy downpours," although the system is expected to weaken as it continues south and east.

Scattered showers and thunderstorms are also expected to develop Monday afternoon as daytime heating increases. Forecasters do not expect widespread rainfall, with most locations receiving around one-quarter inch of rain. Isolated areas could pick up as much as one-half inch.

A few isolated afternoon storms may linger into Tuesday before rain chances decrease by the middle of the week.

By Wednesday, Central Texas is expected to return to a more typical midsummer weather pattern, with persistent humidity and afternoon temperatures climbing into the upper 90s and approaching the 100-degree mark.

Long-range forecasts indicate warmer-than-average temperatures will continue through at least the next one to two weeks, with little relief from the heat expected.

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