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After a week of heavy rainfall and severe weather alerts, conditions across Bastrop County are shifting sharply, with forecasters warning of a potentially historic early-season heat wave.
The National Weather Service issued multiple advisories between May 5 and 6, including severe thunderstorm warnings, a tornado watch and a flood advisory for low-lying areas. Now, a high-pressure system moving north from Mexico is expected to push temperatures into the triple digits for the first time in May in several years, creating a dome of dry, sinking air across the Elgin area.
The Bastrop County Office of Emergency Management has gone from urging residents to stay storm-aware to cautioning against extreme heat, which could reach 103 degrees midweek. Officials recommend staying hydrated, avoiding outdoor activity during peak afternoon hours, wearing light clothing and checking on neighbors—especially the elderly and those without air conditioning.
The National Weather Service notes that extreme heat is the deadliest weather-related hazard in the United States, claiming more lives each year than hurricanes, floods or tornadoes.
The heat follows a period of notable rainfall. The Colorado River rose to 4.3 feet locally last week, though still well below the 23-foot flood stage. County records show more than 1.5 inches of rain fell during the first week of May, exceeding the combined totals from February and March and nearly matching April’s full rainfall.
Officials also emphasize the importance of early preparation for hurricane season, which begins June 1. That includes assembling disaster supplies, reviewing insurance coverage and registering for local and federal emergency alerts.
