Context:

Texas is experiencing one of the hottest May heat waves on record, with temperatures in central and southern regions reaching between 100 and 113 degrees Fahrenheit. This extreme heat is unusual for early May, where average temperatures are typically in the high 80s. The heat wave, driven by a high-pressure dome, is putting significant stress on the state's electrical grid as energy demand has surpassed previous records. Forecasters expect the heat to persist into the following week, breaking multiple temperature records. This dramatic temperature swing follows a cooler start to May with severe weather events, and while the connection to climate change requires analysis, the trend of increasing heat waves is clear.

Dive Deeper:

• Temperatures across central and southern Texas reached dangerous levels between 100 and 113 degrees, breaking several records and posing a high risk for heat-related illnesses.

• The heat wave is driven by a high-pressure dome over Texas, which traps hot air and pushes it towards the surface, significantly raising temperatures.

• Energy consumption in Texas has reached record levels as residents rely heavily on air conditioning, with demand surpassing 78,000 megawatts, stressing the state's electrical grid.

• This extreme heat is atypical for early May when average highs are around 87 degrees, and is expected to continue, breaking daily records in cities like Austin and San Antonio.

• The current heat wave follows a period of normal-to-below-normal temperatures earlier in May, which included severe weather events such as thunderstorms and tornadoes, marking a significant temperature shift.