SAN ANTONIO — The beginning of April is already bringing in high temperatures for the South Texas region. Temperatures are expected to reach nearly 100 degrees on Thursday and Friday.

In anticipation of the heat, the City of San Antonio has decided to open nearly two dozen cooling centers on April 8 and 9. The cooling centers will follow COVID-19 precautions, including mandatory face coverings, screening, sanitation and social distancing guidelines. 

“With high temperatures forecasted for Thursday and Friday, please remember that excessive hear can pose a health threat.” says City Manager Erik Walsh. “The City of San Antonio is providing several community centers that follow strict COVID-19 protocols to ensure everyone’s safety. We encourage those who do not have a way to stay cool at home to visit these locations during the day.”

The city encourages people to drink plenty of water and protect yourself from the sun. People are encouraged to call and check on their neighbors, friends or family members who may be at high risk including: adults over 65, children under four, and people with pre-existing medical conditions, such as heart disease, and those without access to air conditioning.

Additionally, residents should watch for warning signs of heat stroke: red, hot, and moist or dry skin, no sweating, a strong rapid pulse or a slow weak pulse, nausea, confusion or acting strangely. If a child exhibits any of these signs, the child should be cooled rapidly with cool water (not an ice bath) and local emergency should be contacted.

Children and pets also should not be left alone in vehicles. If you see a child or pet locked in a hot car or in the back of a truck, take note of the car’s description, license plate number, and call 911 or 207-SAPD immediately. If concerned for a pet, call Animal Care Services at 311. Per San Antonio city ordinance, both police and Animal Care officers have the right to break a car’s window if a child or animal is endangered inside a vehicle.        

For a list of cooling centers, visit the Metro Health or the San Antonio Office of Emergency Management

Stay updated on the weather through Spectrums News 1 Daily Forecast or watch for Weather On The 1s.