Thunderstorms possible this weekend, Saharan haze arrives next week

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — The heat ridge is moving away from Texas, and that will allow a weak front to blow into Southeast Texas this weekend. The front won’t cool us off, but it does offer up a chance for thunderstorms both Saturday and Sunday.

First we have to get through another hot and mostly dry Friday. There is a less than 20% chance a shower or storm could develop along the sea breeze front, but most will stay dry. A Heat Advisory in effect through 10 p.m. Friday. Heat index values will peak between 108 to 112 degrees in most neighborhoods.

What are the rain chances for the weekend?

We’ve set rain chances at 30% for both Saturday and Sunday. Saturday’s rain will likely hold off until the late afternoon and early evening, and because temperatures will be near 100 degrees, any storm that pops up could bring severe wind gusts over 60 mph.

Will rain chances continue to next work week?

Yes, but they are only at 20% for Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday. After that, the heat ridge will build back toward Texas and send temperatures back up to 100, and a Saharan dust cloud will dry out the air even more.

What are you monitoring in the tropics right now?

We are tracking a thick plume of Saharan dust that is likely to impact us next week, and we are also tracking a new tropical wave that could develop as it move toward the Caribbean. For a full overview of what’s happening in the tropics, head to our Tropical Update page.