As temperatures climb across North Texas, health officials are reminding residents that extreme heat remains the leading weather-related cause of death in the United States. In Texas alone, more than 300 heat-related deaths were reported during the state’s record-breaking 2023 summer heat season, according to the Texas Department of State Health Services.  

Local health departments also continue tracking rising cases of heat-related illness. Dallas County and Tarrant County maintain seasonal heat illness monitoring programs, while Denton County reported more than 170 heat-related illness cases during a recent heat season.

Medical experts say dehydration, heat exhaustion and heat stroke can develop quickly during outdoor exercise, sports, festivals and summer work activities. Symptoms may include dizziness, nausea, fatigue, headaches and muscle cramps.

Across the Dallas-Fort Worth Meteroplex, cities and community centers provide cooling stations and public heat safety resources during extended heat waves. Residents are encouraged to drink water consistently, limit strenuous afternoon activity and check on vulnerable neighbors and family members.

For more heat safety information and cooling center resources, visit TexasReady.gov.