Wednesday, June 24, 2026, greeted Houston with muggy, hazy air and a sky that looked like it had not quite had its morning coffee. Temperatures started out in the upper 70s, with dew points in the mid 70s, making the air feel thick before sunrise. Patchy smoke is still hanging around in spots this morning, but skies are expected to clear as the day goes on and temperatures climb into the mid 90s this afternoon. That combo will make the afternoon a grind for outdoor workers and for anyone without reliable air conditioning.
What To Expect Today
Early patchy smoke should gradually lift, leaving mostly sunny skies and a high near 95°F. A light southwest breeze around 5 mph will not do much to take the edge off, and late-afternoon readings will ease only into the low 90s. Forecasters say heat-index values could peak near 105°F today, and Wet Bulb Globe Temperature (WBGT) readings are expected to reach the high (red) risk category each afternoon, according to the National Weather Service Houston/Galveston.
Heat Risks And Who's Affected
Officials say the region may dodge formal heat advisories at times, but the stubborn humidity and high afternoon feels still pose health risks. Older adults, infants, people with chronic medical conditions and outdoor workers are most vulnerable. The City of Houston Office of Emergency Management urges residents to find a nearby cooling center, sign up for AlertHouston and call 3-1-1 for local hours and locations. Officials also recommend frequent water breaks, limiting strenuous activity between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m., and checking on neighbors who may not have air conditioning.
Where To Cool Off
City multi-service centers and libraries are open as cooling spots, giving residents some air conditioned relief from the afternoon blast. One nearby option is the Denver Harbor Multi-Service Center at 6402 Market St. Reliant's "Beat the Heat" program has supplied dozens of portable AC units to participating sites this month, expanding the number of places where residents can cool off. For a full list of participating locations and more details, see our earlier coverage of the city's cooling-center rollout.
Quick Tips
Try to schedule outdoor plans for early morning or evening, carry water and move events indoors if you can. If you work outside, take frequent breaks in the shade and watch for signs of heat illness such as dizziness, heavy sweating or confusion. If someone shows signs of heat stroke, including very hot, dry skin or loss of consciousness, call 911 right away.
