Houston, January 6, 2026
Houston is experiencing unusually warm weather, with January temperatures expected to reach record highs this week before a cold front brings a significant drop. From Tuesday through Thursday, temperatures could surpass 85 degrees—a record for this month—due to high pressure and southern winds. Participants of the Houston Marathon on Sunday will enjoy cooler conditions, with morning temperatures ranging between 40 to 50 degrees. Fog advisories remain in effect for areas near Galveston Bay, impacting travel in Southeast Texas.
Houston Experiences Record January Heat Ahead of Weekend Cool Down and Marathon
Houston is currently experiencing an unseasonably warm spell, with temperatures expected to reach record-setting highs for January from Tuesday through Thursday. This unusual warmth is forecast to give way to more typical winter conditions over the weekend as a cold front moves through the region, bringing ideal weather for the upcoming Houston Marathon.
On Tuesday, temperatures in Houston are projected to climb to between 83 and 85 degrees, likely surpassing the previous daily heat record of 80 degrees for January 6, set in 1989. The warmth could intensify on Wednesday, with highs possibly reaching the mid-80s, which would challenge the all-time January heat record of 85 degrees established on New Year’s Day in 2022. This extended period of heat is attributed to an upper-level ridge of high pressure situated over Mexico, combined with consistent southerly and southwesterly winds.
A significant change in weather is anticipated late Thursday into Friday with the arrival of a cold front. This front is expected to cause a considerable temperature drop, bringing highs down by approximately 20 degrees. Temperatures will then return to levels more typical for early January, with afternoon highs in the mid-60s and early morning lows in the 40s over the weekend. While there is a chance of isolated showers or spotty downpours, particularly across parts of Southeast Texas on Thursday and Friday, significant rainfall totals are not expected, with most areas likely receiving less than a quarter-inch.
For participants and spectators of the Houston Marathon on Sunday, January 11, the forecast indicates nearly perfect conditions. Morning temperatures for the marathon are predicted to be between 40 and 50 degrees Fahrenheit, rising into the low 50s by midday. Specifically, starting temperatures could range from 42 to 46 degrees under mostly clear skies, accompanied by light north winds of about 5 mph. The race day is also expected to feature low humidity levels and gentle breezes, further contributing to favorable running conditions.
Throughout this warm spell, areas of dense fog have been affecting Galveston Bay and the nearshore Gulf waters. Advisories for dense fog have been in effect, and patchy fog is also forecast for morning commutes across Southeast Texas through Thursday, which could impact travel.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- What are the current weather conditions in Houston?
- Houston is experiencing record-setting January warmth, with temperatures expected to reach the lower-80s from Tuesday through Thursday.
- When is a cold front expected to arrive in Houston?
- A cold front is expected to arrive late Thursday into Friday.
- How much will temperatures drop after the cold front?
- Temperatures are expected to drop by approximately 20 degrees, returning to near-average levels for early January.
- What is the forecast for the Houston Marathon on Sunday, January 11?
- The forecast indicates nearly perfect conditions for the Houston Marathon on Sunday, January 11, with morning temperatures between 40-50 degrees Fahrenheit, rising to the low 50s by midday.
- Is there a chance of rain with the upcoming cold front?
- There is a chance of isolated showers or spotty downpours with the front, particularly across parts of Southeast Texas on Thursday and Friday, though significant rainfall totals are not expected.
- Are there any fog advisories in effect for the Houston area?
- Areas of dense fog are impacting Galveston Bay and the nearshore Gulf waters, with advisories in effect. Patchy fog is also expected for morning commutes across Southeast Texas through Thursday.
Key Weather Features in Houston
| Feature | Details | Scope |
|---|---|---|
| Current Temperatures (Jan 6-8) | Record-setting January warmth, highs in lower to mid-80s. | City-level |
| Cold Front Arrival | Late Thursday into Friday. | City-level |
| Post-Front Temperatures | Return to near-average, highs in mid-60s, lows in 40s. | City-level |
| Houston Marathon Forecast (Jan 11) | Nearly perfect conditions, morning 40-50°F, low humidity, light winds. | City-level |
| Rain Chances with Front | Isolated showers possible Thursday/Friday, but not significant rainfall. | Regional/City-level |
| Fog Conditions | Dense fog impacting Galveston Bay and nearshore Gulf waters; patchy fog for morning commutes in Southeast Texas through Thursday. | Regional/Local |
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Author: STAFF HERE HOUSTON TX WRITER
The HOUSTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREHouston.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Houston, Harris County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, Art Car Parade, and Chevron Houston Marathon. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Houston Partnership and Houston Area Urban League, plus leading businesses in energy and healthcare that power the local economy such as ExxonMobil, Schlumberger, and Houston Methodist. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HERECollegeStation.com, HEREDallas.com, and HERESanAntonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
