Houston is starting today under a thick, muggy blanket that feels more like April than mid-February. Temperatures sit in the mid-50s and pockets of dense fog are slashing visibility in low-lying neighborhoods and along the bayous. A Dense Fog Advisory is in effect until 9 a.m. CST today, so morning commuters should expect slower traffic and extra-cautious driving.
Afternoon Winds Pick Up
The fog should start to lift by mid-morning, giving way to partly sunny skies and a high near 77°F today, with readings easing back toward about 73°F by late afternoon. The Dense Fog Advisory remains in effect until 9 a.m. CST, after which the bigger story becomes the breeze: south winds at 5 to 15 mph with gusts up to around 25 mph, which will be especially noticeable on bridges and exposed roadways. According to NWS Houston/Galveston, that gusty southerly flow will be the main impact for afternoon commutes.
What Drivers and Boaters Should Know
If you are driving in the fog this morning, slow down, use low-beam headlights and leave extra following distance until the haze lifts. Avoid sudden lane changes when visibility drops. Out on the water, boaters are urged to hold off on nonessential trips while visibility is poor and to keep running lights on if they do head out. Coastal seas will be around 2 to 4 feet today and are expected to build later in the week.
Midweek Warmth, Small Rain Chances
Temperatures will trend warmer through the work week, with highs near 80°F on Wednesday and climbing into the low 80s Thursday as onshore flow strengthens. Rain chances stay low through Friday, with only a slight uptick in shower activity possible Saturday ahead of a weak front. Forecasters expect much of the work week to be dry and running above normal. According to NWS Houston/Galveston, some inland spots could even flirt with near-record highs by midweek.
