Houstonians can expect a forecast marked by sunshine and climbing temperatures this week, following recent wintry conditions. According to National Weather Service, it's a serene setting with mostly sunny skies today and highs hovering around 69, accompanied by a gentle west wind.
As nighttime falls, an occurrence of patchy fog is anticipated, with skies clearing and temperatures dropping to a low near 51. Similar forecasts continue through the week with sunny days and highs around 70, but by Friday night, the probability of rain leaps to 70%, signaling a change in pattern. Over the weekend, Houston will see increased chances of showers and thunderstorms before clear skies return on Sunday.
Amidst this brief respite from the cold, the Houston Chronicle queries if winter might have said its goodbye to Southeast Texas. The forecast suggests a gentle ascent of daytime temperatures into the 70s, but a cold front is expected to bring cooler temperatures and rainy conditions over the weekend.
For those concerned about severe weather, the Storm Prediction Center has stated that "no severe thunderstorm areas are forecast" for Wednesday, alleviating fears of tumultuous weather amidst an otherwise mild week. As high pressure gives way and eastward shifts, southeasterly winds will continue to raise the temperature day by day.
Looking ahead, residents might wonder whether winter gear can be stashed away. Despite a cooler breeze come Sunday, the absence of a strong signal for deep chill from the Climate Prediction Center through mid-February might indicate the harshest winter days are behind. There's still a whisper of winter left according to climate records, with Houston's coldest days typically behind by mid-February, yet the question of whether winter is officially over remains gently tossed in the air.
