A Dallas County resident in their 50s has died from heat-related causes, the first such fatality of the 2026 season, as an Extreme Heat Warning blankets the Murphy, Wylie and Sachse area through Monday, Aug. 24.

Dallas County Health and Human Services confirmed the death Friday, Aug. 21. The victim had pre-existing medical conditions, and the department declined to release additional identifying information.

DCHHS director Dr. Philip Huang urged residents to check on family, friends, neighbors, older adults, children and anyone with chronic health conditions, warning in the department's announcement that Texas heat can become dangerous quickly.

The fatality came during a punishing stretch of triple-digit temperatures. The Extreme Heat Warning issued by the National Weather Service covered both Dallas and Collin counties, according to Fox 4, putting all three cities squarely in the danger zone.

DFW Airport had recorded 26 days at or above 100 degrees this summer as of Thursday, Aug. 20, and the region marked 35 consecutive days without measurable rainfall. Highs reached 106 degrees on Monday, Aug. 17, matching the hottest temperature recorded in the metroplex this year.

What residents should do

DCHHS urged residents to limit time outdoors between 3 and 7 p.m., when temperatures peak. The department also recommends:

  • Drink water every hour when outside, even if not thirsty.
  • Avoid alcohol on hot days.
  • Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing.
  • Stay in air-conditioned spaces; take shade breaks if you must be outside.
  • Never leave people or pets in a parked car.

Heatstroke can begin when a person's core body temperature reaches 104 degrees, according to the Texas Department of State Health Services, and a core temperature of 107 degrees is considered lethal.

Free A/C units available

Dallas County residents whose home air conditioning is not working may qualify for a free emergency window unit by calling 214-819-1909. The program is available to Dallas County residents; eligibility for Sachse residents on the Collin County side has not been confirmed.