AUSTIN, June 25, 2025 — With triple-digit days already threatening to scorch Central Texas and the season just heating up, Austinites are feeling the burn – literally. Whether you’re hiking the Greenbelt, biking along Lady Bird Lake, or manning a food truck in Eastside, extreme heat can do more than make you sweat. It can threaten your heart.  

Austin’s early streak of upper-90s and 100+ degree days, starting as early as May this year, is more than an inconvenience. It’s a serious health threat. According to the CDC, over 1,200 people in the U.S. die each year from extreme heat, and an increasing number of those deaths are linked to cardiovascular disease. Dehydration and heat force your heart to work harder, which is especially dangerous for older adults or anyone with pre-existing heart conditions. 

Austin Summer Survival Tips 

  • Time your activities: It’s best to avoid the outdoors in the early afternoon (about noon to 3 p.m.) because the sun is usually at its strongest, putting you at higher risk for heat-related illnesses. 

  • Dress for the heat: Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing in breathable fabrics such as cotton, or sweat-repelling fabrics 

  • Hydrate often: Stay hydrated by drinking a few cups of water before, during and after going outside or exercising. Avoid caffeinated or alcoholic beverages. 

  • Take regular breaks: Find some shade or a cool place, stop for a few minutes, hydrate and start again. 

It’s also important to know the signs of heat trouble. Watch out for signs of heat exhaustion like dizziness, rapid pulse, headaches, nausea, or cold, clammy skin. If you or someone else shows these symptoms, stop, cool down, and hydrate immediately. If symptoms progress to confusion, very high body temperature, or dry red skin, call 9-1-1 immediately – it could be heat stroke. 

Even in the peak of the heat, physical activity is still key for heart health. Try shifting your workout to early mornings on the trail or cooling off indoors at a gym, rec center, or even a shopping mall.  

Learn more about how heat can affect your heart health at heart.org. 

Additional Resources: 

  • Multimedia is available on the right column of the release link. 

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About the American Heart Association   

The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. Dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities, the organization has been a leading source of health information for more than one hundred years. Supported by more than 35 million volunteers globally, we fund groundbreaking research, advocate for the public’s health, and provide critical resources to save and improve lives affected by cardiovascular disease and stroke. By driving breakthroughs and implementing proven solutions in science, policy, and care, we work tirelessly to advance health and transform lives every day. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook, X or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.         

   

For Media Inquiries 

Michael Vybiral: michael.vybiral@heart.org  

For Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721) 

heart.org and stroke.org