Texas Tightens Heat Rules for School Sports and Bands

HOUSTON, Texas – Starting in the 2026-2027 school year, all schools participating in activities governed by the University Interscholastic League must adhere to a new mandatory protocol to protect student athletes and marching band members from high temperatures. Beginning August 1, 2026, the use of the Wet Bulb Globe Temperature (WBGT) system will no longer be a recommendation but a requirement for all outdoor practices and training organized by the UIL in Texas. This measure aims to reduce the risk of heat-related illnesses, particularly heat exhaustion, a life-threatening medical condition. What is the WBGT and how do the new rules change? Unlike traditional temperature readings, the WBGT takes into account multiple environmental factors such as air temperature, relative humidity, solar radiation, and wind speed. This information determines the actual level of thermal stress that students are exposed to during outdoor physical activities. Schools will be required to measure the heat before and during each practice. The new rules mandate that schools measure the WBGT 15 minutes before the start of each training session and then every 30 minutes during the activity. They may use specialized equipment or scientifically approved digital platforms to calculate the index based on the exact location of the practice. If weather conditions change and the WBGT rises during the session, training must be immediately modified according to official safety guidelines.