July 2024

Understanding Extreme Heat

Summer comes with a lot of fun and activities, but it also comes with hidden danger—extreme heat. Here are some alarming facts about the dangers of heat:  

• Extreme heat is the number-one weather-related cause of death in the U.S., making it twice as deadly as a tornado, and three times as deadly as a hurricane.  

• Heat is more dangerous for the elderly, young children, people with underlying health conditions, and marginalized communities.   

• When temperatures outside are between 72 and 96 degrees Fahrenheit (which a summer in Texas often is), internal vehicle temperatures can increase 43 degrees in a single hour.  

We understand these statistics are alarming, but there are preventive measures you can take to feel prepared and stay safe from the heat this summer. 
 

Help Your Loved Ones Beat the Heat 

• Always check your vehicle before exiting to double check no one is left behind. 

• If you have children at home, keep your car keys out of reach or lock your car when it is parked in the driveway or garage to prevent them from getting into the vehicle on their own. 

• If you or someone else shows signs of heat stroke, call 911 immediately. This is a medical emergency. In the meantime, move the person to a cooler environment, use a wet cloth to cool them down, and avoid giving them fluids. 

Look Out for Your Furry Friends  

• Pets have higher body temperatures than humans and take longer to cool down. Keep this in mind whenever you take your pets outside or in a vehicle. 

• Never leave your pet in a vehicle, even for a short errand. 

• Before leaving the house, consider if it's worth bringing your pet along. If you plan to be out most of the day, it's usually better to leave your pet at home. 

Stay Cool on the Trails 

• Avoid hiking too long in the heat by planning ahead, preparing with equipment, and using GPS guidance.  

• Pack plenty of water and drink regularly. Pro tip: Set a reminder on your phone to hydrate.  

• When environmental temperatures are between 90 degrees and 105 degrees Fahrenheit, you can experience heat cramps and heat exhaustion. When temperatures are above 105 degrees Fahrenheit, heat exhaustion becomes increasingly more likely. Check the weather beforehand and re-schedule the hike if temperatures appear too dangerous.  

• Avoid the hottest parts of the day, typically between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. 

We understand that was a lot to take in, but when you are safe in the heat, you can fully enjoy your summer and all the experiences it brings. Thank you for prioritizing the safety of yourself and others this season. For additional tips on heat safety, visit https://www.ready.gov/heat. 

We Invite You to our Virtual Open House 

Join us for our upcoming open house! The Mobility Authority invites you to participate in the 183A Added Capacity Project Environmental Study Virtual Open House. We're studying the potential addition of a fourth lane on 183A Toll in both directions between RM 620/SH 45 and Hero Way. 

About the Virtual Open House 

The Virtual Open House will begin at 5 p.m. on Wednesday, July 31 and will be available for viewing until Sunday, September 1, 2024 at MobilityAuthority.com/183a-ac.

Virtual participants may:  

• View the Virtual Open House 

• View and/or download project materials  

• Submit comments and feedback 

Keeping Community Connected

Getting to where you want to go is a huge part of the journey. At the Mobility Authority, we prioritize keeping you connected to all the places you live, work, play and love.  

Learn more about our work:  

Protecting You from Smishing Scams