Extreme Heat Conditions

Last Content Update:

Warning

ERCOT has issued a Conservation Appeal for today, September 7, from 5 p.m. – 9 p.m.

ERCOT has issued a Conservation Appeal for today, September 7, from 5 p.m. – 9 p.m. due to continued high temperatures, high demand, low wind, and declining solar power generation this afternoon, operating reserves are expected to be low into the afternoon and evening hours. ERCOT is expecting similar conditions tomorrow and will keep the public informed through their communications channels.

An ERCOT Conservation Appeal is a request for Texans to reduce electrical usage, if safe to do so. Conservation is a widely used industry tool that can help the grid by lowering demand for a specific period of time, which is typically late afternoon into the evening hours in the summer. Conservation helps grid operators balance generation supply and customer demand.

Extreme heat will continue today.

An Excessive Heat Warning issued by the National Weather Service is in effect today. Ensure that you are taking the proper precautions to protect yourself, family, pets, and property.

Stay Informed

The following resources will help you stay informed.

Fort Bend County Cooling Centers

Fort Bend County libraries are an option for those looking for relief from the heat.

Visit the Fort Bend County Library website for locations and hours.

If in need of public transportation to cooling sites visit the Fort Bend County Public Transportation website for a full bus schedule.


Preventing Heat-Related Illness

Heat-related death or illnesses are preventable if you follow a few simple steps.

  • Stay in an air-conditioned area during the hottest hours of the day. If you don't have air conditioning in your home, go to a public place such as a shopping mall or a library to stay cool. Cooling stations and senior centers are also available in many large cities for people of all ages.
  • Wear light, loose-fitting clothing.
  • Drink water often. Don't wait until you are thirsty.
  • Avoid unnecessary hard work or activities if you are outside or in a building without air-conditioning.
  • Avoid unnecessary sun exposure. When in the sun, wear a hat, preferably with a wide brim.

Air conditioning is the strongest protective factor against heat-related illness. Exposure to air conditioning for even a few hours a day will reduce the risk for heat-related illness.

Car Safety

  • NEVER leave children or pets alone in hot vehicles! Heat can rise in a car, up to 20 degrees in just 10 minutes!
  • Even with the windows rolled down, only minutes in a hot car can be deadly for your pet! NEVER leave your pets in the car!
  • If you see a kid in a hot car- act fast! You could save a life!
  • Heat related deaths ARE preventable! Look before you lock!

More Information