Monday, May 26, 2025
As Houston heads into the unofficial start of summer, residents can expect a sizzling hot weekend followed by an increasingly unsettled weather pattern, with rain and thunderstorms becoming more likely beginning Memorial Day and continuing through the middle of next week.
Unofficial Start to Summer Brings Heat and Humidity
The Memorial Day weekend kicks off with typical summer heat and high humidity across the Houston metro area. According to the National Weather Service (NWS) Houston/Galveston office, temperatures will soar into the low to mid-90s Fahrenheit, with heat index values — the “feels-like” temperature that accounts for humidity — ranging from 100 to 105 degrees (source: NWS Houston/Galveston).
This elevated heat index indicates conditions that can lead to heat-related illnesses such as heat exhaustion and heat stroke, especially during outdoor activities. It’s critical to stay hydrated, limit strenuous activities during peak heat hours, and wear sun protection like broad-spectrum sunscreen, hats, and lightweight clothing. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends these precautions to prevent heat-related health risks (CDC Heat & Sun Safety).
A persistent southeast breeze will help maintain high humidity levels, increasing the muggy feel throughout the weekend. This breeze could also carry haze from agricultural fires burning in northern Mexico, which might slightly affect air quality. The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) advises residents sensitive to air pollution, such as those with respiratory conditions, to monitor air quality reports (TCEQ Air Quality).
Beach and Water Safety Warnings
For those heading to Houston-area beaches, including Galveston and the Bolivar Peninsula, water safety remains a top priority. The Gulf Coast’s warm waters can be inviting, but dangerous rip currents are likely along many shorelines this weekend.
The U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and the U.S. Coast Guard strongly advise swimming only in designated areas monitored by lifeguards and caution against venturing far into open water unless you are a very strong swimmer (NOAA Rip Currents).
In particular, San Luis Pass, located between Galveston Island and the Bolivar Peninsula, remains a hazardous area. Swimming there is illegal and extremely dangerous due to strong tidal currents and underwater hazards. Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) emphasizes avoiding this area altogether to prevent drownings (TPWD Beach Safety).
Rain Chances Increase Starting Memorial Day
While the weekend remains hot and mostly dry, weather conditions will begin shifting on Monday, Memorial Day. The forecast from the NWS predicts increasing chances of afternoon and evening thunderstorms, especially north of Interstate 10. This pattern is expected to continue and intensify through next week.
A weak cold front is forecast to move into the Houston region Monday night into Tuesday, bringing increased atmospheric instability. This front will allow for scattered showers and thunderstorms, which may be heavy at times. According to NWS forecasts, the chance of rain could remain elevated into midweek, with widespread showers and storms expected on Wednesday and Thursday.
As a result, highs next week are expected to moderate slightly, hovering in the mid to upper 80s. However, the humid conditions will persist, maintaining a muggy and uncomfortable feel through the week.
Residents should stay alert to the possibility of severe weather, especially overnight Monday into Tuesday. The northern parts of the viewing area have the highest risk for severe thunderstorms, which could include damaging winds, frequent lightning, and localized flooding. The Storm Prediction Center (SPC) monitors such risks and issues watches and warnings as conditions develop (SPC Severe Weather).
How to Stay Weather Aware and Prepared
Given the transition from hot and dry conditions to an unsettled, rainy pattern, it’s important for Houstonians to stay up-to-date with the latest forecasts and alerts. The NWS recommends utilizing multiple sources such as NOAA Weather Radio, local news outlets, and weather apps to monitor real-time updates.
Fox Local Houston, for example, offers continuous weather coverage, including alerts for severe weather. Downloading trusted weather apps and signing up for local emergency notifications can enhance personal safety, especially during thunderstorm events.
The Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM) also encourages residents to have an emergency plan ready, including preparations for power outages, flash flooding, and storm damage. Resources and safety tips can be found on their website (TDEM Safety).
Summary: What to Expect for Houston This Week
- Weekend (Saturday-Sunday): Hot, humid, and dry with highs in the low to mid-90s. Heat index values near 100–105. Southeast breezes maintaining humidity and haze from distant fires. Dangerous rip currents along the coast.
- Memorial Day (Monday): Increasing chance of afternoon/evening thunderstorms, especially north of I-10. Possible severe weather overnight.
- Tuesday to Thursday: Scattered showers and thunderstorms continue with highs in the mid to upper 80s. Humid and muggy conditions persist.
- Safety Tips: Stay hydrated and protect yourself from heat. Swim only near lifeguards and avoid San Luis Pass. Monitor severe weather watches and warnings. Prepare for rain and potential storms midweek.
By staying informed through official sources such as the National Weather Service Houston/Galveston, Storm Prediction Center, and Texas state emergency management, Houstonians can enjoy the start of summer while remaining safe and prepared.
If you want localized updates tailored to your neighborhood, consider downloading trusted weather apps or signing up for emergency alerts from your county’s emergency management office.
