HOUSTON – With daily highs pushing past 102°F for the fifth day in a row, urgent care centers and emergency rooms across Houston are reporting a sharp increase in heat-related illnesses.
According to Memorial Hermann’s system-wide ER dashboard, more than 60 cases of heat exhaustion or heat stroke were logged in the last 48 hours — nearly triple the average for late August.
“People think they’re fine until they’re not,” said Dr. Erin Machado, ER physician at Memorial Hermann Southwest. “We’re seeing everyone from landscapers to joggers to warehouse workers.”
Most patients have been treated and released, but at least five required hospitalization, including two elderly residents without working air conditioning.
The Houston Health Department has issued an extended Heat Advisory through Sunday and is opening cooling centers across the city. Residents are encouraged to call 3-1-1 to find the nearest location.
☀️ Know the Signs of Heat Exhaustion:
- Dizziness or confusion
- Nausea
- Rapid heartbeat
- Heavy sweating or hot, dry skin
- Muscle cramps
“Don’t wait until you feel faint,” Dr. Machado warned. “Stay hydrated. Take breaks. Check on your neighbors.”