Houston is in for a weather rollercoaster this week, with warm and humid conditions giving way to thunderstorms, potential flooding, and a major cold front. If you’ve been enjoying the recent mild temperatures, don’t get too comfortable—a drastic change is on the horizon.
The biggest concerns this week? Heavy rain, strong winds, flash flooding, and a dramatic temperature drop from the 80s to the 40s in just 24 hours. If you haven’t already prepared for severe weather, now is the time.
Breaking Down the Week’s Forecast
The start of the week will feel like classic Houston weather—warm and cloudy—but by Tuesday night, strong storms will take over, followed by a significant cooldown.
- Monday (Today): Cloudy and mild with a high of 70°F (21°C). A few spotty showers may pop up, but nothing major. Overnight, temperatures will dip to 64°F (18°C).
- Tuesday: The warmth continues, but things start to change fast. Cloudy skies will dominate, with showers and thunderstorms moving in, especially in the evening. Some storms could bring flash flooding and damaging wind gusts. Temperatures will peak at 78°F (25°C) before the storms arrive, and overnight will stay mild at 66°F (19°C).
- Wednesday: The most extreme weather day of the week! Expect periods of heavy rain and gusty winds, with highs soaring to a humid 82°F (28°C). But don’t get used to it—a powerful cold front will sweep through, dropping temperatures to 46°F (8°C) by night.
- Thursday: Much cooler weather settles in. Expect cloudy skies, a passing shower or two, and a high of only 57°F (14°C). The nighttime low will dip to 42°F (6°C), making it one of the coldest nights of the week.
- Friday: A slight warm-up with increasing clouds. Temperatures will reach 64°F (18°C), but the night will remain chilly at 59°F (15°C).
How This Weather Could Affect You
This isn’t just another week of Houston’s usual weather—it’s a week of extremes that could impact travel, daily routines, and safety.
- Severe Storms & Flash Flooding: The biggest threat is Tuesday night into Wednesday, when thunderstorms could dump heavy rain in a short period. Flood-prone areas may experience standing water, and strong winds could knock down tree branches and power lines.
- Difficult Commutes: If you’re driving Tuesday night or Wednesday morning, expect slick roads, reduced visibility, and potential delays.
- Sudden Temperature Shock: If you’re outside on Wednesday afternoon in shorts and a t-shirt, you might regret it by the evening. Temperatures will drop fast, making it feel much colder.
- Power Outages Possible: With strong winds and heavy rain, some areas may experience power disruptions.
How to Stay Safe & Prepared
With such wild weather swings, it’s important to stay ahead of the storm and take simple precautions.
- Keep an Eye on Weather Alerts – Stay tuned to updates from the National Weather Service and local news for any severe weather warnings.
- Prepare for Storms & Possible Power Outages – Charge your devices, have flashlights ready, and secure any loose outdoor furniture that could blow away in strong winds.
- Watch Out for Flash Flooding – If you’re driving, never attempt to cross flooded roads! Even just a few inches of water can make your car lose control.
- Dress for Drastic Temperature Changes – Wednesday’s warm morning could turn into a freezing evening. Wear layers and keep a jacket handy if you’ll be outside later in the day.
- Drive Cautiously in Rain & Wind – Slow down, use headlights, and avoid high-speed roads during storms. Expect longer travel times.
Why Is Houston Getting This Crazy Weather?
Houston’s weather is always unpredictable, but this week’s wild swings are caused by a strong cold front clashing with warm Gulf moisture.
- Early in the week, warm air from the Gulf of Mexico is fueling high temperatures and humid conditions.
- By Tuesday night, a powerful cold front from the north will collide with this warm air, sparking thunderstorms and bringing a sudden drop in temperatures.
- As the front pushes through, it will leave behind cooler, more stable air—making Thursday and Friday feel much different than the start of the week.
This type of weather pattern is typical for Houston in the winter months, but the intensity of the storms and the rapid temperature swings make this week particularly noteworthy.
Final Thoughts: Stay Alert and Be Ready for Anything
Houston’s forecast this week is a little bit of everything—warmth, storms, flooding, and an Arctic chill.
If you haven’t prepared for severe weather or sudden cold snaps, now is the time.
- Tuesday and Wednesday will bring the biggest risks—thunderstorms, flooding, and strong winds.
- Thursday and Friday will be chilly but calmer, allowing the city to dry out.
