WATCH: Record-setting heat grips Austin

Temperatures in Austin shattered a record Wednesday when the mercury soared to a record 105 degrees. It was the hottest day of the year and the second day in a row we've set a record high.

Video

KVUE's Amy Johnston reports

> More KVUE Weather video

Search Video:

With temperatures in the triple-digits and no significant rain another Central Texas county enacted a burn ban. Blanco County is banning both outdoor burning and fireworks. Travis and Hays counties put bans in effect Tuesday.

Most of the area remains in an exceptional drought --- that's the most severe category.

In the meantime, Austin residents were just trying to stay cool. A Bassett Hound named Theodore didn't mind the heat at Ramsey Park Wednesday, but even he's smart enough to find a shady spot.

"I work with kids all day, and we're outside all day and it is so hot. You just walk out and you start melting. We try to keep them inside, but you know just like a dog, they have to get their energy out," said his owner, Holly Bentley.

A lot of people seem to release that energy in the cool pools around town, but then limit their time in the sun.

"Oh I haven't been out here too long. I just got off work, jumped in and probably hit (tennis) balls for about 20 minutes. I'm about ready to head on home now," said Stephen Wilson.

Then there are those who struggle to make ends meet, and in this blistering heat, they are turning to others for help. Family Eldercare is trying to get people to donate electric fans.

"We're hoping to reach about 7,000 fans this year. And we're about half way there so we really need some help to reach that goal," said Krystal Wilson.

They've teamed up with Austin Fire Department, and every station will accept a new boxed fan or donation.

It's tough all around in this economy. A Houston lawmaker filed an emergency petition which would prevent utility companies from shutting off electricity when the heat index reaches 105 degrees.

This June won't be hotter than in 2008, but it's likely to be the second or third hottest month on record. On average, Austin will only see a dozen triple digit days a year. Right now, we're at 11 and counting -- likely through the end of the month.