Houston has welcomed a significant shift in its weather patterns as a cold front moved in overnight, bringing much-needed rain and cooler temperatures a day earlier than expected. This transition marks an end to an unusually warm and dry fall season that had seen temperatures regularly flirting with record highs and drought conditions affecting the region.
Throughout September, October, and November, Houston experienced average high temperatures exceeding normal levels by 4 to 6 degrees. As a result, the area slipped into a moderate-to-severe drought, which left many lawns parched and brown due to minimal rainfall—some areas receiving only 25 to 50 percent of normal precipitation levels.
The recent overnight front has brought a welcome 2 to 4 inches of rainfall across much of the Houston metro area, with the exception of Katy and western regions. This storm system, which exceeded expectations, signals a significant pattern change, brief as it may be.
As temperatures settled into the mid-50s shortly after sunrise on Sunday, residents can expect a chilly day with gray skies and gusty winds reaching up to 25 mph. Lows will dip into the 40s overnight, marking a stark contrast to the prior warm autumn conditions.
On Monday, residents should prepare for more rain as a system moves in from the southwest. Coastal counties will likely see the most accumulation, with forecasted totals pushing 1 to 2 inches, while inland areas will experience lesser amounts. High temperatures are expected to remain in the low to mid-50s.
Tuesday will bring clearer skies but will remain cold, with highs reaching the upper 50s. Nighttime temperatures in areas north of Houston could drop into the 30s, although the greater Houston area is expected to avoid freezing temperatures.
Looking ahead, Wednesday’s highs will rise into the 60s. However, another storm system is anticipated to arrive later in the week, particularly around Thursday, renewing rain chances before potentially chillier temperatures return by Friday or Saturday morning.
Additionally, a reminder for residents: the annual fundraiser concludes Monday night, providing a final opportunity to support local efforts through merchandise purchases or donations, with heartfelt thanks extended to all contributors thus far.