1) A new Click2Pins.com
HOUSTON – Before I get to the forecast, I want to show you something new with Click2Pins. In the past, when you sent us a photo or video, we’d share it on TV along with your name. Now, we can take it a step further, your photo appears right on the map, showing exactly where it was taken.
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This is a powerful tool, especially during severe weather. It helps us highlight where the strongest storms hit and how different areas are impacted in real time.
We’d love to feature your pictures and videos! Just head to Click2Pins and upload your shot. You might see it on TV very soon.
Press play below to what this looks like on TV as well as getting your forecast.
2) Texas drought improvement
Heavy rains over the past several weeks have made noticeable improvements to the Texas drought. A significant part of West Texas is seeing better conditions, and much of Southeast Texas is now drought free, except for Columbus, which remains in moderate drought. Austin saw heavy rain last week and is showing signs of recovery, while San Antonio has not yet improved.
Houston and Galveston have recorded rainfall well above average the past 30 days. While parts of far West Texas still need additional rain, the general outlook is positive, and more widespread rain is possible in the middle of next week.
3) Saharan dust brings hazy skies and air quality concerns
In addition to the heat this weekend, we’re also expecting a plume of Saharan dust to move into Southeast Texas starting Friday afternoon. It’ll arrive along the coast first, then gradually spread over Houston and surrounding areas.
The dust will create hazy skies for about 24 to 36 hours before clearing out late Saturday. While Saharan dust often brings us those stunning, colorful sunsets, it can also reduce air quality, especially if it settles closer to the surface.
If the dust turns out to be especially thick, it could knock temperatures down a degree or two. But at this point, I don’t expect it to be dense enough to significantly affect our forecast highs.
4) Extreme heat risk expected as temperatures challenge records
We’re in for a significant jump in temperatures this weekend. Houston is expected to hit 98 degrees on Sunday, just shy of the record 99° set back in 1980. And unfortunately, the heat won’t ease much overnight, with morning lows hovering near 80 degrees.
Sunday’s heat risk is categorized as “extreme” and is highlighted in purple on the heat risk map. This level of alert is reserved for rare and dangerous heat events, especially when there’s little to no overnight relief. It’s particularly hazardous for those without reliable air conditioning or access to cooling.
While most of us will just feel uncomfortable, for some, especially vulnerable individuals or those dealing with AC issues, this heat could be dangerous. Make sure to check in on neighbors and loved ones.
The good news? Temperatures are expected to back off a bit next week, with highs returning to the upper 80s.
5) Rain and thunderstorms back in the forecast next week
Looking ahead, more widespread heavy rain is possible next week, and temperatures drop into the upper 80s mid-week. Whether you’ve been enjoying the rain or hoping for blue skies, keep an eye on our Storm Tracker 2 app for the latest forecasts and updates.
