Why does it feel hotter than it actually is in the Big Country?

BIG COUNTRY, Texas ( KTAB/KRBC ) – Have you ever wondered why it can sometimes feel warmer or colder than what the actual thermometer may be reading outside? This relation is known as the heat index, also known as the ‘feels like’ temperature.

The ‘feels like’ temperature takes many factors into account, including humidity, wind, and direct sunlight. For instance, a temperature of 90°F in a place with high humidity can feel like 98°F, while a temperature of 40°F in very windy conditions might feel more like 32°F.

Humidity has a significant impact on how hot it feels. When the air is humid, usually with dewpoints higher than 60°F, we experience a large amount of moisture, often coming from the Gulf of Mexico in the Big Country. In humid conditions, sweat is slower to evaporate, which makes it more difficult to cool down. This is why a humid day can feel much hotter than a dry day at the same temperature.

Another way to experience higher ‘feels like’ temperatures is by direct sun exposure, which warms your skin and clothes more quickly, making you feel warmer than the actual temperature.

Wind chill is an important factor in how cold it feels. According to the National Weather Service, wind chill can only be calculated for temperatures lower than 40°F with wind speeds above 5.0 mph. Our bodies naturally emit heat. As the wind blows, it takes away this heat, making it feel colder than the actual temperature.

When checking the weather, keep in mind that humidity, direct sunlight, and wind can affect the forecast. Also, the “feels like” temperature can make you wish you had dressed or planned differently than what the thermometer reads.

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