Intense heat continues to grip city

HOUSTON In Houston's Memorial Park, the heat is rising, And joggers can feel the humidity pressing in.

"It's so bad in the afternoon, it feels like you're walking through something," said jogger Warren Ellis.

But with temperatures predicted to hit 100 degrees this week, it's about to get a whole lot worse. And the city of Houston has asked people start to taking precautions.

"I don't think you can ever really get used to the triple digits," said personal trainer Terrie Irving.

Irving recommends using common sense.

"Hydration, nutrition, active recovery after your workout and rest," she said.

That's especially important for kids or older adults. Officials with the Houston Health Department says underestimating the heat or ignoring signs of heat exhaustion can have serious consequences. Some of those signs include fatigue, nausea and dizziness.

Already, this year, the Harris County Medical Examiner's office has confirmed it is investigating four possible heat related deaths. But native Houstonian Warren Ellis says he has the solution to staying safe.

"Stay inside," he advised us.

On Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, we are expecting record-breaking heat. The last time we felt 100-degree temperatures in Houston was August of last year.

Reliant Energy has opened eight cooling centers in an effort to help residents to beat the heat. They are open Monday through Friday, from 9am to 5pm.

• Acres Homes MSC, 6719 W. Montgomery Road
• Denver Harbor MSC, 6402 Market St.
• Fifth Ward MSC, 4014 Market St.
• Magnolia MSC, 7037 Capital St.
• Northeast MSC, 9720 Spaulding St.
• Southwest MSC, 6400 High Star Dr.
• Sunnyside MSC, 4605 Wilmington St.
• West End MSC, 170 Heights Blvd.

Each of these Reliant Energy Beat the Heat Center will include adult and youth games, movies, snacks and water, as well monthly visits to the centers by Reliant Energy Home Energy Advisors, who will put on energy efficiency demonstrations and answer consumers' questions about ways to lower their electricity consumption. For specific information on the Beat the Heat Centers, or to schedule free rides to and from the Beat the Heat Centers, interested participants can call 713-497-2711.

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