As Juneteenth observes its historic significance, Houstonians looking to celebrate in the great outdoors may have to contend with uncertain weather. According to the National Weather Service, the forecast predicts a 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms primarily post 1 pm with a high heat index possibly reaching the 103 mark, offering quite the balmy setting for the community's festivities.
The Houston Chronicle provides a more detailed timeline of what to expect throughout the day; the morning may start dry and muggy with expected heat index values between 83 and 86 degrees, however though as the day progresses temperatures are likely to soar to the upper 80s with feeld-like temperatures nearing 98 degrees, cumulus clouds too will start reaching ominous heights.
The potential for precipitation appears to increase in the afternoon; attendees of various Juneteenth celebrations, such as the 160 Fest in Houston or Galveston Island's Juneteenth Celebration, should come prepared with umbrellas, the Houston Chronicle warns, as storms could interrupt outdoor activities with sudden downpours—especially during the Galveston Juneteenth Parade, which has a forecast of rain likely to stay mainly along and north of I-10.
By evening, scattered storms are expected to dwindle, with skies clearing up by 9 or 10 p.m., setting the stage for a drier Friday morning. As the day goes on, rain chances appear to diminish, with high atmospheric pressure expected to set in by Friday and continue through Saturday. This will bring somewhat of a reprieve, as rain becomes less of a concern and downpours are slated to be few and far between.
Looking ahead to the weekend, rain chances are low as high pressure takes over, pushing temperatures into the mid-90s. The humid air starts to ease, marking the first weekend of astronomical summer with typical Texan heat.
