Houston Braces for Record-Breaking Warmth as Temperatures Surge
A dramatic warming trend is set to grip Houston, with the potential for daily record high temperatures next week. Residents can expect a shift from mild conditions to potentially scorching heat, following a brief respite Friday.
Houston is already experiencing a noticeable increase in temperatures. This morning, temperatures are running 8 to 12 degrees warmer than they were on Monday morning at the same time, according to data from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Weather Prediction Center (NOAA WPC).
Tuesday: A Sunny Start to the Warm-Up
Today will be characterized by warmer temperatures and sunshine, though high cirrus clouds may occasionally dim the sun. Highs are expected to reach the 60s, making for a pleasant late autumn day.
Wednesday & Thursday: Showers and Rising Heat
Wednesday presents the highest chance of precipitation over the next week, though many areas may remain dry. Expect low clouds, areas of fog, and scattered showers, with a possibility of an isolated thunderstorm. Temperatures will climb to around 70 degrees.
The potential for fog, particularly sea fog, will return Wednesday night and continue into Thursday morning as a warmer, more humid air mass settles over the region. Depending on sunshine levels, temperatures could soar into the 70s on Thursday. A cold front will arrive Thursday afternoon or evening, bringing a drop in humidity and a wind shift, but is not expected to carry significant moisture.
Friday: A Brief Cool Down
While Friday morning will see temperatures dip into the 40s across most of the area, this chill will be short-lived. According to Pivotal Weather, the colder morning will be less severe than the previous day. Friday itself promises a delightful day with highs warming into the low to mid-60s.
Weekend and Beyond: Record Heat on the Horizon
The return of onshore flow Friday night will initiate a significant warm-up heading into next week. Highs are forecast to reach the 70s on Saturday and potentially the 80s on Sunday. This pattern is expected to continue throughout the week.
Here’s a look at the record high temperatures for the coming days, alongside current forecast ranges from various models:
| Date | Record High | Current Forecast High Range |
|---|---|---|
| Saturday 12/20 | 81° (1921) | 77-80° |
| Sunday 12/21 | 82° (2010) | 78-82° |
| Monday 12/22 | 81° (2017) | 72-81° |
| Tuesday 12/23 | 81° (2020) | 76-81° |
| Wednesday 12/24 | 82° (1955) | 78-83° |
| Thursday 12/25 | 83° (2015) | 79-84° |
| Friday 12/26 | 84° (2016) | 78-83° |
While Monday currently appears to be the “wild card” day, with a potential for a brief cool spell, record highs are very much in play from Saturday through next Friday. Residents are advised to stay tuned for further updates as the forecast evolves.
