Houston Heatwave: Asphalt Lies Hiding Youth Harm?

By Franklin Everett Shaw

January 1, 2026

The air hangs heavy, thick with humidity, a familiar blanket in Houston summers. But this year feels different. The heat records are tumbling, and the asphalt, that ubiquitous surface covering our streets and sidewalks, is becoming a silent, scorching menace. We’re not just talking about discomfort; we’re talking about real danger, especially for our most vulnerable: children, pets, and the elderly. And in certain Houston neighborhoods, the risk is amplified.

This isn’t a generic warning. This is a hyper-local survival guide for Houstonians, specifically those living in areas like Gulfton, Sharpstown, and parts of the East End, where a combination of limited green space and aging infrastructure creates a perfect storm for asphalt-related heat injuries. We’re going to cut through the noise and give you actionable steps to protect yourself, your loved ones, and your furry friends.

First, let’s understand the enemy: asphalt. It absorbs a tremendous amount of heat. On a 95-degree day, asphalt can easily reach temperatures of 140-150 degrees Fahrenheit. That’s hot enough to cause second-degree burns in seconds. The deceptive part? It doesn’t always feel that hot to the touch initially. The wind can cool the surface slightly, creating a false sense of security.

Protecting Your Feet (and Everyone Else’s)

The most obvious danger is to bare feet. Walking barefoot on hot asphalt is a recipe for disaster. But even thin sandals offer little protection.

The Obvious, But Often Overlooked: Wear shoes. Seems simple, right? But how many times have you dashed out to the mailbox in flip-flops or let your kids run around the driveway barefoot? Make it a habit: shoes on anytime you’re on asphalt during peak heat hours (10 AM to 6 PM).
Shoe Choice Matters: Opt for closed-toe shoes with thick soles. Leather or synthetic materials are better insulators than thin rubber.
The "Hand Test": Before letting anyone walk on asphalt, place the back of your hand on the surface for five seconds. If it’s uncomfortably hot for you, it’s too hot for them. This is especially crucial for children, who may not be able to accurately gauge the temperature.
Cooling Breaks: If you absolutely must be on asphalt for an extended period, take frequent breaks in the shade or on cooler surfaces like grass or concrete.

Protecting Your Pets: Paws in Peril

Our furry companions are even more vulnerable. Their paws are closer to the ground, and they can’t tell us when they’re in pain until the damage is done.

The "Seven-Second Rule": Just like the hand test for humans, use the seven-second rule for your pet. Place the back of your hand on the asphalt for seven seconds. If it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for their paws.
Walk During Off-Peak Hours: This is non-negotiable. Walk your dog early in the morning or late in the evening when the asphalt has had a chance to cool down.
Paw Protection: Consider dog booties. Yes, they might look silly, but they can be a lifesaver. Make sure they fit properly and are made of a heat-resistant material.
Moisturize Paws: Dry, cracked paws are more susceptible to burns. Use a paw balm regularly to keep them moisturized.
Carry Water: Always carry water for your dog and offer it frequently. Heatstroke can exacerbate paw burns.
Emergency Care: If you suspect your dog has burned its paws, immediately flush them with cool water and seek veterinary attention. Look for signs like limping, licking paws excessively, or blisters.

Protecting Children: Little Feet, Big Risks

Children are particularly susceptible to asphalt burns because their skin is thinner and more sensitive. They also tend to be less aware of the dangers.

Constant Supervision: Never let children play unsupervised on asphalt during hot weather.
Water Play: Set up sprinklers or a small wading pool in a shaded area to provide a safe and cool alternative to asphalt.
Educate, Educate, Educate: Teach children about the dangers of hot asphalt and why it’s important to wear shoes.
Check Playground Surfaces: Playground surfaces can get extremely hot. Check the temperature before allowing children to play. If the surface is too hot, find an alternative activity.
Cooling Towels: Keep cooling towels on hand to wipe down children’s faces and necks.

DIY Cooling Strategies: Beat the Heat on a Budget

Living in neighborhoods with limited green space means getting creative with cooling strategies.

DIY Shade: If you don’t have trees, create your own shade with umbrellas, tarps, or portable canopies.
Evaporative Cooling: Wet a towel and drape it over your neck or head. The evaporation will help cool you down.
Strategic Watering: Water down asphalt surfaces in the early morning to help them stay cooler throughout the day. Be mindful of water conservation.
Community Cooling Centers: Know the location of your nearest cooling center. The City of Houston and Harris County operate several cooling centers during extreme heat events. Find a list on the city’s website or by calling 311.
Window Coverings: Use blackout curtains or reflective window film to block out sunlight and reduce heat inside your home.

Specific Challenges in Vulnerable Neighborhoods

Gulfton, Sharpstown, and parts of the East End face unique challenges:

Limited Green Space: These neighborhoods often have fewer parks and green spaces, leaving residents with limited options for escaping the heat.
Aging Infrastructure: Older sidewalks and streets may be more prone to cracking and crumbling, creating uneven surfaces that can trap heat.
Higher Population Density: More people living in a smaller area means more competition for limited resources like shade and cooling centers.
Language Barriers: Some residents may not be aware of the dangers of hot asphalt or the resources available to help them stay cool due to language barriers.

Overcoming These Challenges

Community Advocacy: Advocate for more green spaces and improved infrastructure in your neighborhood. Contact your city council member and demand action.
Neighborhood Cooling Initiatives: Organize community events like water balloon fights or sprinkler parties to help residents stay cool.
Information Sharing: Share information about the dangers of hot asphalt and available resources with your neighbors, especially those who may not speak English.
Volunteer at Cooling Centers: Help staff local cooling centers and provide assistance to those in need.

The Deceptive Nature of “Cool” Asphalt

Remember, asphalt can be deceptively cool to the touch. A slight breeze or a passing cloud can lower the surface temperature temporarily, but the asphalt underneath is still retaining heat. Don’t be fooled! Always use the hand test or the seven-second rule before allowing anyone to walk on it.

Local Resources for Heat Relief

City of Houston 311: Call 311 for information about cooling centers, heat advisories, and other resources.
Harris County Public Health: Visit the Harris County Public Health website for information about heat safety and resources.
United Way of Greater Houston: Call 211 for assistance with finding cooling centers, transportation, and other services.

This isn’t just about surviving another Houston summer; it’s about protecting our community. By taking these precautions and advocating for change, we can make our neighborhoods safer and more livable for everyone, especially those most vulnerable to the dangers of hot asphalt. Don’t wait for someone to get hurt. Take action today.