Houston wakes up to clear skies and a chill in the air on Sunday morning, February 22, 2026, but the calm will not last long. Temperatures start out in the upper 40s and should climb into the low 60s by afternoon, yet a steady north wind will keep the day feeling distinctly blustery. Out over the water and across dry ground, conditions are serious enough that marine warnings and an elevated fire-weather threat are in effect through Monday, February 23, 2026.
Afternoon Winds Pick Up
North winds around 10 to 15 mph, with gusts up to 25 mph, are expected through the afternoon, with the punchiest gusts over open, exposed areas and on elevated roadways. Inland humidity could dip into the teens this afternoon, a combination that can turn dry brush into fast-moving fire fuel. These details are from the National Weather Service; see NWS Houston/Galveston for the latest outlook.
Fire Weather And Safety
With low humidity teaming up with gusty winds, this is not the day for open burning. Avoid outdoor burning, postpone debris fires and make sure loose yard items are tied down or brought inside. If you work outside or are hosting events, keeping a hose or extinguisher nearby is a smart move, and shifting vehicles or temporary structures out of the most exposed spots can cut your risk if a fire starts nearby. For background on yesterday’s fog-to-gust swing, see our earlier coverage on yesterday’s soup-thick fog.
On The Water
Gale conditions are expected over parts of the Gulf waters and Matagorda Bay through about noon CST Sunday, February 22, 2026, with seas building to 6 to 10 feet and northerly winds commonly 25 to 30 knots offshore. For small boats, this is a stay-in-port kind of morning, and anyone planning time on Galveston Bay should be ready for rough chop and quick-hitting gusts. Before you shove off, check the marine products on the NWS Houston/Galveston page for the latest updates.
