New UIL rules take effect for outdoor activities
CLEAR LAKE, Texas – August 19, 2026 – As students head back to school and after-school
sports practices kick into full gear amid near triple-digit temperatures across the Houston
area, Houston Methodist experts are offering guidance on the new University Interscholastic
League (UIL)’s heat safety rules and how student-athletes can stay safe in the extreme heat.
For the 2026-27 school year, UIL now requires schools to use Wet Bulb Globe Temperature
(WBGT) monitoring to assess outdoor conditions and determine whether modifications need
to be made for practices, games and marching band activities. Previously, WBGT was simply
a recommendation.
“The goal isn’t to keep kids off the field; it’s to recognize dangerous heat conditions early so
they can compete as safely as possible,” said Dr. Haris Vakil, a board-certified primary care
sports medicine physician at Houston Methodist Clear Lake Hospital.
Vakil is available to discuss what the new requirements mean for student-athletes and can
share practical tips for preventing heat-related illness during practices and workouts.
Topics Vakil can address include:
- What the new UIL WBGT requirements mean for schools, coaches and parents
- Why student-athletes are especially vulnerable to extreme heat
- Warning signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke
- The biggest hydration mistakes young athletes make
- Whether water alone is enough to stay hydrated
- Simple nutrition and electrolyte strategies to help prevent heat illness
- How athletes can safely acclimate to the heat before intense practices begin
- What parents should watch for after practice when symptoms may not be obvious
Symptoms of heat exhaustion can include fatigue, nausea, dizziness, muscle cramps,
vomiting and confusion. Without prompt treatment, heat exhaustion can progress to heat
stroke, a life-threatening medical emergency.
As a former student-athlete, Vakil has both personal experience and medical expertise
regarding this topic and can provide practical advice for families navigating another hot
Texas fall sports season.
