Houston rolled out of bed under a cloudy, muggy sky Wednesday, with temperatures hovering near 75°F and dew points stuck in the low 70s, so it already feels like walking into a steam room. The sun should poke through at times this afternoon, but highs are still expected to top out near 89°F. After 1 p.m. there is about a 30% chance of showers and thunderstorms. Most activity will be scattered, but any stronger storm could briefly dump heavy rain or kick up gusty winds, so it is worth building a little extra time into the afternoon commute.
Afternoon Storms: Where The Risk Is Highest
Scattered showers and thunderstorms are expected to fire up from late morning into the afternoon, with the best coverage north of I-10 and across inland neighborhoods. The National Weather Service Houston/Galveston notes that strong wind shear and plenty of moisture could let a few storms produce hail and damaging wind gusts, and training cells could trigger pockets of localized flash flooding. The chance of rain sits near 30% this afternoon and is on track to increase later in the week.
Late-Week Front Could Bring A Big Change
A strong late-season cold front is expected Friday into Friday night and will likely be the main rain and wind maker for the region. Forecasters say Friday offers the best shot at widespread showers and thunderstorms, with much cooler air dropping in behind the front and highs falling into the 50s in some inland spots by Saturday. For more background see stormy shake-up by week's end.
Boaters And Weekend Plans
Boaters and anyone planning time on the water this weekend should be ready for building winds late Friday into Saturday. Small craft advisory conditions and a growing risk of gale force gusts over the bays and nearshore Gulf are possible late Friday night, with offshore seas potentially topping around 10 feet. Plan to secure loose gear ahead of time and check local marine advisories before heading out.
How To Prepare
For any afternoon outdoor plans, bring plenty of water and find shade where you can, and keep a rain jacket handy for the drive home. Move or tie down patio furniture in case storms flare up, allow extra travel time if showers develop, and keep an eye on radar and local advisories later in the day.
