Texas Heatwave Triggers Surge in Heat-Related Emergencies: ER Visits and EMS Calls Soar, Warns CDC

By Lucia Paula , Parent Herald Jun 28, 12:57 am

Photo: (Photo : Brandon Bell/Getty Images)

Texas is grappling with a surge in emergency room visits attributed to the scorching heatwave sweeping across the state. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Texas has witnessed a significant increase in heat-related emergency department visits compared to the same period last year. CDC data reveals that for the week of June 18 to June 24, there were an average of 837 heat-related visits per 100,000 emergency department visits, compared to 639 visits per 100,000 during the same period in 2022.

The relentless heat is taking its toll on Texans, leading to a concerning spike in health emergencies. With temperatures soaring to dangerous levels, individuals are experiencing heat-related complications, prompting them to seek urgent medical attention. The extreme heat poses a serious risk to public health, necessitating immediate action and awareness.

Houston, one of the major cities in Texas, has also witnessed a rise in heat-related incidents. The Houston Fire Department has reported an increase in daily heat-related incidents, surpassing their usual average of three incidents per day. According to ABC's Houston affiliate, KTRK, the department has responded to 93 such incidents this month alone, reflecting the severity of the heatwave. These incidents range from heat exhaustion and heatstroke to other heat-related ailments.

Houston Methodist Hospitals Witness Rise in Heat-Related Cases

According to ABC, the healthcare system in Houston has also observed a surge in patients seeking medical attention for heat-related symptoms. Houston Methodist hospitals and clinics have reported nearly 100 patients presenting with heat-related symptoms between May and June 21. According to Houston Methodist, the actual number might be higher because many people arrive with pre-existing conditions that the intense and prolonged heat exacerbates. Physicians at Houston Methodist are working diligently to provide necessary care and treatment to patients grappling with the effects of the scorching temperatures.

The extreme heat has had a negative impact on not only humans but also animals. The Houston Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) has reported a substantial increase in calls related to pets experiencing heat distress compared to last year. From June 1 to June 20, the Houston SPCA received 243 heat-related reports, indicating the urgent need for rescuing and treating animals suffering from heatstroke. Certain breeds, such as bulldogs, shih tzus, and pugs, along with seniors and young animals, are especially vulnerable to heat-related issues. Pet owners are urged to take the necessary precautions and ensure their furry companions are protected from the scorching temperatures.

As temperatures soar into the triple digits, Harris County Constable Precinct 1 and the Houston SPCA have been actively rescuing animals in distress. In one incident, a dog was found in a wire kennel directly exposed to sunlight, with the surface thermometer registering a scorching 117 degrees. Additionally, a senior chihuahua with serious skin issues was discovered wearing a sweater outside in Southwest Houston, where the surface temperature reached 106 degrees. These cases highlight the dire consequences of heat exposure and the importance of responsible pet ownership during extreme weather conditions.

Houston SPCA Overwhelmed by Double the Calls for Heat-Distressed Pets

Multiple regions in Texas continue to experience extreme heat, with Dallas reaching temperatures of 105 degrees and Houston recording 101 degrees on Tuesday. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and the National Weather Service emphasize that extreme heat poses a greater risk of fatalities in the United States than hurricanes, tornadoes, and flooding. It is crucial for individuals to prioritize their health and take the necessary precautions to stay cool and hydrated during this heatwave.

As the heatwave persists, authorities are urging residents to stay informed about heat safety measures, such as staying hydrated, seeking shade, and avoiding strenuous outdoor activities during peak heat hours. It is essential to check on vulnerable populations, including the elderly and those with pre-existing medical conditions, who are particularly susceptible to heat-related illnesses. Furthermore, pet owners should ensure their animals have access to shade, water, and a cool environment to prevent heat-related distress.

The extreme heatwave in Texas serves as a stark reminder of the importance of heat safety and the need to address climate change and its adverse effects. By raising awareness and implementing measures to combat rising temperatures, communities can better protect themselves and mitigate the impact of extreme heat-related emergencies.