The city of Austin is bracing for a significant increase in temperatures this weekend, with the return of triple-digit heat, as reported by KXAN. After a three-week respite, the mercury is set to climb well into the 90s today, exceeding the average for this time of year by more than 5 degrees. Rising temperatures are anticipated to hover around 100° for both Saturday and Sunday.
There is a slight chance of rain across portions of the Rio Grande Plains Sunday and Monday. Otherwise, dry conditions and continued above normal temperatures are forecast through the weekend and into next week. pic.twitter.com/LBiqcWq7PB
— NWS Austin/San Antonio (@NWSSanAntonio) September 13, 2024
According to the National Weather Service, the weather today in Austin will be sunny, with the temperature peaking near 98 and a heat index as high as 102. A calm wind will shift to the south-southwest around 5 mph. These conditions contribute to the summer-like sensation gripping the area. The current heat wave can be attributed to the dominant high-pressure system influencing the climate pattern over the region.
Warm and dry today with high temperatures in the mid to upper 90s for most locations, and 100-102 degrees along the Rio Grande. Periods of high cirrus clouds will stream through the area. pic.twitter.com/IuwRISXvE5
— NWS Austin/San Antonio (@NWSSanAntonio) September 13, 2024
Looking ahead to the weekend, Tropical Storm Ileana in the eastern Pacific is expected to contribute some high-level moisture, which will mix with sun and clouds, KXAN noted. This means that despite the presence of these clouds, mostly in the mid and high levels, Austin residents will still experience enough sunlight to maintain temperatures well above the seasonal normal.
The onset of next week brings only a nominal reprieve, as temperature dips about a singular degree daily. However, there's a hint on the horizon for higher rain chances and cooler temperatures, but those changes aren't forecast until the following weekend, as per information provided by KXAN.
In terms of nightly weather, the forecast from the National Weather Service predicts partly cloudy skies this evening with a low around 76. The calm wind is likely to continue, with a southern direction settling in after midnight.
