As summer heat arrives in North Texas, the Department of Public Safety is urging Texans to prepare for the extreme temperatures.

This year's early bout of heat is likely to blame for the early sightings. The National Weather Service has issued warnings for much of Southeast Texas this week, where an unseasonably intense heat wave is developing. Cities like Houston are expected to hit the mid to upper 90s this week, possibly breaking temperature records for May.

Record-breaking Texas heat threatens millions as forecasts predict nationwide temperature extremes through summer. Learn the risks and how climate changes

A brutal and record-early heat wave is baking Texas this week — bringing the triple-digit temperatures typical of July to the middle of May. The sudden heat spike, which was made more likely by

Texas is bracing for a relentless and potentially historic heat wave this week, with dangerously high temperatures expected statewide.

After two days of record-setting heat, Houston is expected to again break another daily record high on Thursday as highs reach into the mid-90s.