Scurry County is under a heat advisory through 7 p.m. Friday, the National Weather Service announced Wednesday evening.
Temperatures are expected to reach the mid 100s today and Friday, including a high of 106 degrees Friday afternoon. On Saturday through Monday, temperatures will be in the lower 100s.
“An extended period of hot temperatures is expected and will create a situation in which heat-related illnesses are possible,” a weather service alert stated. “Drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air-conditioned room, stay out of the sun as much as possible and check on relatives and neighbors.”
Never leave children or pets in a closed vehicle as temperatures inside can reach 140 degrees or more in a short period of time, the alert stated. Ensure outdoor pets have plenty of water and shade.
“Take extra precautions, if you work or spend time outside. When possible, reschedule strenuous activities to early morning or evening,” the alert stated. “Know the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Wear lightweight and loose fitting clothing when possible and drink plenty of water.
To reduce risks during outdoor work, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration recommends scheduling frequent rest breaks in shaded or air conditioned environments. Anyone overcome by heat should be moved to a cool and shaded location.
Snyder has recorded 19 days of 100-plus degree temperatures this year, but Wednesday’s high of 102 degrees was the first time it topped the century mark in July.
In 2011, the year of the severe drought that hit West Texas, Scurry County had recorded 36 days of 100-plus degree temperatures by July 19.
Scurry County is not under a burn ban, but drought conditions exist.
The western half of the county is currently listed in a severe drought while the eastern half of the county is in the moderate drought stage.
All of Borden and Howard counties are listed in a severe drought stage this week.
Statewide, 72 percent of the state is listed in a drought stage, down from 75 percent last week.
According to the Texas A&M Forest Service, 137 counties are currently under a burn ban, including Borden Fisher, and Garza counties.
Last month, Scurry County commissioners lifted the burn ban, but gave the county judge the authority to issue one if conditions warrant it.
The weather service is forecasting a slight chance of showers for Tuesday, which should drop temperatures to the mid 90s.
Snyder has received 10.09 inches of rain this year. The 2018 total is more than inches higher compared to the 2011 drought year total of 3.02 inches recorded by July 19.
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