The morning commute could be tricky as patchy fog blankets parts of the city, cutting visibility and making driving hazardous. Once the fog lifts, strong winds gusting up to 25 mph will kick in, adding an extra challenge for drivers and outdoor workers. And by afternoon? Houston will be roasting under a near-record heatwave, nearly 15 degrees above the average March high. If you’re heading out, you’ll want to dress for summer, not spring!
Breaking Down the Forecast: What to Expect on Thursday
Morning: Thick fog could make for a dangerous commute. Visibility may drop significantly on highways and major roads, so expect delays and drive cautiously.
Midday: Strong southerly winds will pick up, reaching speeds of 20-25 mph. If you have lightweight outdoor furniture, trash bins, or loose decorations, secure them before they blow away!
Afternoon: The heat cranks up, with highs reaching a scorching 87°F. This will be one of the hottest days of the year so far and well above the seasonal average of 72°F. If you’re spending time outside, wear sunscreen, stay hydrated, and take breaks in the shade.
Evening: The warm conditions will linger into the night, with temperatures still sitting in the low 70s after sunset.
How This Weather Could Impact You
Foggy and Windy Commutes: The dense morning fog could create hazardous driving conditions, especially on highways and bridges. Drivers should use low-beam headlights and allow extra travel time.
Wind Risks: With gusts up to 25 mph, outdoor objects like lawn chairs, trash bins, and signs could be tossed around. If you have decorations or patio furniture, secure them before the winds pick up.
Heat-Related Concerns: While 87°F might not seem extreme for Houston, it’s an unusual jump for March, and people may not be ready for the sudden spike in temperatures. If you work outside or plan to exercise outdoors, drink plenty of water and take frequent breaks.
Unusually Warm Evening: With such high daytime temperatures, expect the heat to linger well into the evening. If you’re heading out at night, you won’t need a jacket—it will still feel like summer.
How to Stay Safe & Comfortable in This Weather
Drive Cautiously in the Fog: Keep your low beams on, drive slower than usual, and leave extra distance between cars.
Stay Hydrated: With temperatures this high, it’s easy to get dehydrated, especially if you’re outdoors for long periods. Carry water with you throughout the day.
Prepare for Wind Gusts: If you have lightweight patio furniture, umbrellas, or plants, bring them inside or secure them.
Dress for the Heat: Ditch the sweaters and grab your sunglasses—it’s going to be a hot one!
Stay Weather-Aware: This heatwave will be brief, as a cold front is expected to bring cooler temperatures and possible storms by Friday. Keep an eye on updates in case conditions shift unexpectedly.
Looking Ahead: When Will the Heat End?
This unseasonable warmth won’t stick around for long. A cold front is expected to push into the region by Friday, bringing a drop in temperatures and even the potential for rain and storms. After Thursday’s heat, expect a much more comfortable weekend with highs returning to the 70s.
Final Thoughts
Houston’s weather is about to take a wild turn, with summer-like heat crashing into a foggy, windy morning. Stay prepared, dress light, and drive carefully through the morning mist! And don’t get too used to the heat—a cool-down is right around the corner.
