National Weather Service: 'Life-threatening' rip currents, heat wave expected for Memorial Day weekend

RIO GRANDE VALLEY, Texas (ValleyCentral) — A life threatening rip current, heat advisory and warnings will be in effect throughout South Texas this Memorial Day weekend.

The National Weather Service issued the life-threatening hazards Friday morning.

South Texas counties including those in the Rio Grande Valley are expected to face a heat wave with temperatures up to 117 degrees Fahrenheit.

Dangers of heat exhaustion and heat stroke apply to people, pets and wildlife.

The National Weather Service has provided tips to practice heat safety:

• Look before you lock
• Limit outdoor activities
• Take frequent breaks
• Hydrate frequently
• Apply sunscreen

A rip current statement is in effect for life-threatening rip and longshore currents. The statement is expected to last through Monday.

The National Weather Service has provided a graphic detailing how to escape a current.

Laguna Madre will see a small craft advisory in effect Friday evening due to gusty winds and may last until Sunday.

Heat warnings are currently in effect in Hidalgo and Starr Counties.

Cameron and Willacy counties are currently under a heat advisory.

All heat warnings and advisories in the Rio Grande Valley are expected to last until Monday.