News Summary
Houston is preparing for a possibly scorching August as forecasts predict above-normal temperatures. Recent data shows the city is experiencing a worrying trend of increasing extreme heat days. With a rise in average summer temperatures over the decades, residents are advised to stay aware of potential heat waves and uncertain weather conditions as tropical storms may also impact the local climate. As August progresses, temperatures in the low to mid-90s are expected, along with possible scattered rain showers for relief.
Houston Braces for Above-Normal August Temperatures Amidst Unusual Heat Trends
Houston is preparing for a potentially scorching August, as the National Weather Service’s Climate Prediction Center has forecasted a high likelihood of above-normal temperatures for the month. This prediction aligns with a concerning trend of increasing temperatures and extreme heat days in the region.
As of early August, Houston’s Bush Intercontinental Airport recorded a peak temperature of 101 degrees, marking the city’s second 100-degree day of the year. Historically, Houston averages four 100-degree days annually, a statistic derived from over 130 years of weather records. However, in the past three decades, since 1995, this average has more than doubled, now reaching an alarming nine days per year.
In fact, Houston has seen an uptick in the frequency of extreme heat days since the year 2000. Of the 12 years that recorded 10 or more days with temperatures exceeding 100 degrees, half of those years occurred in the 21st century. This trend intensifies concerns about climate patterns affecting the city.
Temperature Trends and Monthly Averages
This past summer, June 2023 recorded an average daily temperature of 84.7 degrees, ranking as the ninth-hottest June on record despite no 100-degree days occurring that month. Notably, the unusually warm overnight temperatures contributed to this higher average. Similarly, July experienced an above-normal average temperature of 86.3 degrees, marking it the eighth-warmest July on record, accompanied by a daily low average of 77.4 degrees.
August is considered Houston’s hottest month, frequently showing the highest number of 100-degree days. For context, in 2011, the city recorded a staggering 30 days with temperatures reaching or exceeding 100 degrees in August alone. In comparison, the summer of 2022 saw only eight such days despite a mere one in July.
Tropical Threats and Precipitation Patterns
The month of August also introduces uncertainties associated with the likelihood of tropical storms or hurricanes that might affect Houston’s weather. While there are no significant tropical developments currently expected, the unpredictability of tropical storms adds complexity to August temperature forecasts. Rain may offer some relief as tropical moisture returns to the region, potentially increasing the chances of scattered rain showers due to the sea breeze effect.
On record, Houston’s earliest 100-degree day occurred on June 2, 2011, reaching a high of 103 degrees that year. The average date for Houston’s first 100-degree day is usually around July 19, with the typical last occurrence expected by August 10.
Long-term Temperature Increases
A striking statistic from Climate Central indicates that over the past few decades, Houston has witnessed an increase in summer temperatures, averaging a rise of 4.6 degrees from 1970 to 2024. Alongside this, the National Weather Service meteorologists have indicated up to a 60% chance of a hotter-than-normal summer across Houston and the broader Texas region.
The urban heat island effect is another factor that could be contributing to elevated temperatures in Houston, as urban infrastructure and reduced vegetation increase local temperatures. Additionally, the changes in atmospheric moisture levels have been observed to elevate daily temperatures, highlighting the increasing need to monitor weather patterns closely.
As the month progresses, weather forecasts for August indicate high temperatures in the low to mid-90s, accompanied by potential scattered rain showers. Despite the relief that rain may bring, Houston residents are advised to stay alert to the possibility of extreme heat days that may occur as summer continues.
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Additional Resources
- Houston Chronicle: 100-Degree Days and Extreme Heat
- Space City Weather: Hottest Day of the Year and Rain Chances
- Click2Houston: Beat the Sizzling Heat in Houston
- Wikipedia: Climate of Houston
- Google Search: Houston Weather 2025
Author: STAFF HERE HOUSTON TX WRITER
HOUSTON STAFF 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.
