Houston, it’s going to be a week of wild weather! From record-breaking heat to intense thunderstorms and a sudden cool down, this week has it all. Whether you’re soaking up the sun or dodging a storm, here’s your go-to guide to what’s coming, how to stay safe, and what you can expect.
Thursday, April 3: Scorching Heat and Strong Winds
The heat is turning up today, and it’s not holding back! We’re looking at temperatures climbing into the 90s°F (32°C), possibly even breaking a record for this time of year. The previous high was 87°F (30°C) in 2023, and this year, it could surpass that. Along with the heat, we’re facing some strong winds, gusting up to 35 mph. While these winds might make it feel a little cooler than the actual temperature, they’re also stirring up some fire risks. So, if you were planning to be outside today, be cautious.
What You Need to Do:
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Drink Water, A Lot of It: Keep hydrating throughout the day. If you’re spending time outside, don’t forget your water bottle.
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Stay Cool Indoors: If you can, avoid going outside during the peak heat of the day (12 p.m. to 3 p.m.). It’s best to stay in a cool, air-conditioned space.
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Watch for Fire Hazards: Be careful with outdoor activities like grilling or using fire pits. The dry air and heat make it easier for fires to spread.
Friday, April 4: A Break Before the Storms Hit
After today’s heat, things will start to change on Friday. Expect another warm day in the mid-80s°F (29°C), but keep an eye on the sky. By the afternoon, a cold front is moving in, which will spark thunderstorms. These storms will likely hit in the late afternoon, so if you’ve got outdoor plans, be prepared for some unexpected changes. The storms may bring hail, strong winds, and even isolated tornadoes, so it’s time to stay alert.
What You Need to Do:
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Stay Weather-Wise: Make sure your phone is charged and that you’re getting updates from reliable weather sources.
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Prepare for Hail and Wind: If you’re parked outside, move your car to a sheltered area. Bring in any outdoor furniture or items that could blow around.
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Shelter in Place: If a tornado warning is issued, head to an interior room on the lowest floor of your home, away from windows.
Saturday, April 5: The Storms Hit – and the Temperature Drops
Saturday is when the weather really takes a turn. The storms will pick up in intensity, and after the cold front moves through, temperatures will plummet. Expect the highs to drop from the 80s°F (26°C) to the low 60s°F (16°C) by the afternoon. Along with the sudden cooldown, we’re expecting heavy rain, hail, and gusty winds. The storm could also bring isolated tornadoes, so it’s going to be a busy day for weather watchers.
What You Need to Do:
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Prepare for Power Outages: The storms could cause power outages, so charge your phones and have backup power ready if possible.
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Don’t Drive Through Flooded Streets: Heavy rain will cause some areas to flood quickly. If you come across a flooded road, turn around – it’s not worth the risk.
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Tornado Safety: Have a plan for what to do if a tornado warning is issued. Go to the lowest floor of your home and stay away from windows.
Sunday, April 6: Cooler Air and a Calm After the Storm
After all the stormy chaos, Sunday will be much calmer. We’ll have cooler air moving in, with highs only reaching around 64°F (18°C). While it’ll still be a bit windy, it’ll feel like a nice change after the intense heat earlier in the week. This is a great day to get outside if you can. Just keep in mind that the strong winds might make it feel cooler than it actually is, so grab a light jacket if you’re headed out.
What You Need to Do:
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Enjoy the Break: After a wild few days, Sunday is a great time to relax. Enjoy the fresh air and get outside for a walk or a quick hike in one of Houston’s parks.
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Check for Any Updates: Weather can be unpredictable, so keep an eye on your weather apps, just in case any new updates come in.
Monday, April 7 to Wednesday, April 9: Pleasant, Sunny Days
By Monday, things start to settle down, and we’re in for a few days of pleasant, sunny weather. Highs will hover in the low 70s°F (21°C), and it’ll be sunny and breezy – perfect for outdoor activities. If you’ve been cooped up due to the storms, these next few days will be a welcome change. It’ll feel like the calm after the storm, so take advantage of the good weather while it lasts!
What You Need to Do:
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Head Outside: With the mild temperatures and sunny skies, it’s the perfect time to get some fresh air. Whether it’s a walk through the park or just lounging outside, enjoy it while it lasts.
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Refresh Your Emergency Kit: Even though the weather will be calm, it’s always a good idea to double-check your emergency kit, just in case. You never know when Houston’s unpredictable weather might throw another curveball.
Looking Ahead: Warmer Days on the Horizon
As we look further into April and May, warmer temperatures are expected to stick around. The weather may not be as extreme as what we’ve seen this week, but we’ll definitely continue to see warm days and occasional rain showers. As always, keep your weather apps handy and stay prepared for whatever Mother Nature has in store.
