shingo2008

 Towels The area may get some relief – if you can call it that– Wednesday, when the string of triple-digit temperatures isexpected to come to an end.

 Weather.com, the Weather Channel's Web site, forecasts a high of101 on Tuesday. But on Wednesday, temperatures may dip to 98, witha chance of scattered thunderstorms.

 Thank Tropical Storm Edouard for the slightly lower temperatures.

 "It'll still be in the 90s, but it won't be as oppressive,"meteorologist Jason Dunn said.

 On Thursday, that string of 100-degree days could begin anew, witha predicted high of 100. Friday and Saturday could see temperaturesof 101.

 The unrelenting heat has sent higher-than-usual numbers ofresidents to local emergency rooms for heat exhaustion ordehydration.

 At Presbyterian Hospital of Dallas, 14 people entered the emergencyroom for heat exhaustion or dehydration during July, up from onlyone in July 2007, said spokesman Steve O'Brien. The ER averagesthree or four a month in a typical summer, Mr. O'Brien said.

 Baylor Health Care System reported five heat-related admissions toits emergency rooms over the weekend.

 Four heat-related deaths have been confirmed in Dallas County, andanother is being investigated in Tarrant County.

 On Monday, others like Mr. Clarence were seeking relief in homelessshelters.

 The Austin Street Centre, a shelter near downtown, opened its doorsearly to keep people out of the heat, said the Rev. Bubba Dailey.

 "We are running full," said the executive director. "We're beingoverrun."

 Jay Dunn, managing director of The Bridge, said the homelessshelter is providing water 24-7 – coolers are set upthroughout the yard – and is getting ready to install amisting system outside.

 He said the shaded areas average about 10 to 12 degrees cooler thannonshaded sections of the yard.

 The Salvation Army's cooling stations, which will remain open overthe weekend, have seen dozens of visitors.

 In Arlington, the city's ambulance service contractor is teaming upwith the Fire Department, civic clubs and businesses to distribute20-inch box fans to more than 200 low-income families.