Houston woke up Wednesday, May 13, 2026, to the classic combo of blue skies and building heat, with early readings near 68°F (20°C) at KHOU. Sunshine will drive temperatures into the low 90s this afternoon as a light north breeze flips to onshore flow and humidity starts creeping up. An Ozone Action Day is in effect for the metro, so anyone sensitive to air pollution is urged to take it easier outside during the afternoon and early evening.
What To Know Today
Ozone levels are expected to spike during the warmest hours of the day, at times reaching air quality that is considered unhealthy for sensitive groups. Children, older adults, people with asthma and outdoor workers are advised to scale back vigorous outdoor activity and keep needed medications close. The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality has flagged the Houston metro for an Ozone Action Day on Wednesday, May 13, according to TCEQ.
Week Ahead And Marine Concerns
The high should top out near 91°F on Wednesday and around 90°F on Thursday. Readings ease slightly into the upper 80s by Friday, while overnight lows creep into the lower 70s as the weekend approaches. Strengthening onshore south and southeast winds late this week will pump in more humidity and push seas to 3–5 feet, which will make rip currents at Gulf-facing beaches more likely from Friday into the weekend. Rain and thunderstorm chances pick up early next week, with Monday, May 18, carrying the best shot at showers and storms, according to the NWS Houston/Galveston.
Commute And Outdoor Plans
Patchy pre-dawn fog may form near the coast and southwest of the metro before sunrise, although any fog is expected to burn off quickly with sunshine by mid-morning. If you have outdoor plans later in the day, try to shift strenuous work to the cooler morning or evening hours, drink plenty of water and take frequent breaks. To help limit ozone formation, consider carpooling, avoiding idling or drive-through lanes and cutting back on energy use during the peak afternoon hours.
