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[BBC] Globally, experts believe that July will likely be the hottest month on record. Here in Texas, the month saw several cities shatter heat records, with some parts of the state seeing sustained temperatures over 37 C for days on end.

The number of hospitalisations and deaths across Texas during this summer's heatwave remains unclear, but data from the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Texas Department of State Health Services shows that thousands were treated for heat-related illnesses across the state in June and July.

Officials have said the true total is likely far higher, because of incomplete reporting,

More than 30 people are reported to have died this year, including 11 in Webb County on the Mexican border. Last year, more than 300 people died of heat-related causes, the highest figure in decades.

Efforts to keep residents safe, however, are complicated by the fact that across the state, many workers are unable to avoid prolonged exposure to the sun and heat. In Dimmit County, for example, many workers are employed on farms, or in the oil and gas industry.

"It's hot, but what's to be done? If you don't work, you don't eat," said Juan Gomez, an agricultural worker who lives near San Antonio. Even with ample water and rest breaks, he added, the heat "can really affect you if you don't take care".

Other workers are more dismissive of the dangers.

"It's Texas...it's hot," said Everardo Ramirez, a construction worker. "I'm pretty used to it."