Houston is waking up to a gray, drizzly Sunday, with light rain and patchy fog sliding across the city, temperatures parked in the mid-50s and some reduced visibility on low-lying roads. A few showers and thunderstorms were possible before daybreak, but drier air is expected to filter in through the day and highs should still climb into the low 70s. Coastal neighborhoods and the barrier islands will feel the punchiest winds, with brisk northeast breezes and inland gusts near 20-25 mph. Boaters and early commuters should be ready for rougher water and slower travel as the morning gets going.
Morning Commute and Coastal Advisories
Lingering showers may hang on until around 8 a.m., then skies should steadily improve, turning partly sunny by afternoon with highs near 71°F. Most spots will see only a few tenths of an inch of new rain, though an isolated heavier downpour cannot be ruled out. The National Weather Service has a Wind Advisory in effect for the barrier islands until 12 p.m. Sunday, and gale- and small-craft-level winds are expected over Gulf waters and the bays, so gusts could peak around 25 mph inland and run higher at the coast, according to NWS Houston/Galveston. Drivers should take it easy on elevated ramps and bridges this morning, and coastal residents may want to secure lawn furniture, trash bins and other loose items.
Boats, Beaches and the Bays
Offshore seas are forecast to reach about 7-10 feet, with a few higher waves possible overnight into Sunday morning, creating hazardous conditions for small craft and inexperienced boaters. Beachgoers will also be dealing with strong rip currents and choppy surf, similar to the coastal cautions highlighted in our muggy weekend storm outlook. Ferry schedules and recreational trips could see delays or cancellations, so it is worth calling ahead before committing to plans on the water.
Looking Ahead
Monday should bring calmer, more typical spring weather, but rain chances creep back in early next week, with the best shot at showers and thunderstorms from Tuesday into Wednesday. Forecasters are watching for another round of locally heavy rainfall, especially west of I-45, and late-week temperatures are expected to trend warmer into the upper 70s and low 80s, per the NWS Houston/Galveston. Keeping an umbrella handy will not be a bad idea, and drivers should stay alert for brief street flooding where short, intense downpours set up.
