Austin is starting Thursday near 80 degrees under mostly clear skies, but the city is headed for another punishing afternoon. Temperatures are expected to climb to about 102 degrees, with heat index values reaching as high as 108. A few showers or thunderstorms could develop late in the day, but rain is unlikely to provide much relief.
The National Weather Service puts Thursday’s rain chance at 20%, mainly after 4 p.m., with south winds around 5 mph and gusts up to 20 mph. That is a hotter outlook than Hoodline’s Tuesday forecast, which had Austin topping out near 99 degrees while tracking storm chances tied to Edouard’s remnants.
Triple-Digit Heat Peaks Thursday Afternoon
Mostly sunny skies will dominate much of the day as temperatures rise quickly from the low 80s in the morning to the upper 90s by early afternoon. The hottest stretch is expected from midafternoon into early evening, when the thermometer reaches around 101 to 102 degrees. Even with a small storm chance, outdoor work and exercise will feel especially demanding.
Friday Brings Better Storm Odds
Friday looks slightly cooler, with a high near 98 and heat index values up to 104. The chance of showers and thunderstorms increases to 30%, with some activity possible early and continuing through the afternoon. Any storm that forms could bring a brief, locally heavy downpour.
Weekend Heat Refuses To Quit
Saturday should be mostly sunny and near 99 degrees, followed by highs around 98 Sunday and on Labor Day. Overnight lows will remain in the mid to upper 70s, offering only limited cooling after sunset. Small afternoon and evening storm chances will continue, especially near and east of the I-35 corridor.
Heat Safety Remains The Main Concern
No watches, warnings or advisories are listed for the Austin area, but the combination of triple-digit temperatures and humidity remains hazardous. Schedule strenuous outdoor activities for the morning or evening, drink water regularly, and take breaks in shade or air conditioning. Check on older adults, children, neighbors and pets, and never leave anyone in a parked vehicle.
