Houston’s warm winter about to turn into a warm spring

By some definitions, we have reached spring. (Meteorologists mark the beginning of spring on March 1). Astronomically speaking, however, winter does not end until later this month, with the Vernal Equinox on March 19.

What we can definitively say here is that Houston is most definitely transitioning into full-on spring weather, especially beginning next week. More on that below. But before we jump into the forecast, let’s take a quick look back at the region’s mild winter—anywhere from the 6th to 18th warmest depending on where you live. Of particular note: Houston Hobby had zero days below freezing, but eight days with temperatures of 80 degrees or above.

Thursday

Temperatures this morning are generally in the 50s, and we should see mostly cloudy skies clear out by around noon. Winds today will be noticeable out of the north, gusting perhaps to around 25 mph. High temperatures this afternoon will likely reach about 70 degrees under sunny skies.

For this evening, and the Becky G concert at the rodeo, we should see winds falling back as the sun sets, but not going away. With temperatures in the low 60s, falling into the upper 50s after the show, there will be a bit of chill in the air. No rain concerns, of course.

Friday

Lows Friday morning will begin in the upper 40s for most. Sunshine will prevail on Friday, but we’re going to see winds pick back up out of the north at 5 to 15 mph. Highs will likely crest at about 70 degrees again, making for a nice spring time day.

Saturday

Low temperatures on Saturday morning will probably get into the 40s for most of the region, with mostly clear skies and dying winds. This is likely to be the last decently cold night for awhile. The day itself should see a mix of clouds and sunshine, with high temperatures rising into the upper 60s. Lows Saturday night will likely be 5 to 10 degrees warmer than Friday night.

Sunday

Another partly sunny day, likely, with highs of around 70 degrees. By this point we’re probably going to see high pressure move out, and more of an onshore flow fill in to the region. This will set the stage for more clouds, more humidity, and warmer nights. Lows Sunday night likely won’t drop below 60 degrees.

Next week

Enjoy the sunshine to end this week, because next week does not look overly promising for sunny skies. Most likely we’re going to see a mix of partly to mostly cloudy days, with high temperatures in the mid- to upper-70s, and lows in the 60s, and chances for mostly light rain. It’s difficult to see much of a break in this pattern until some kind of front maybe works its way through next weekend. After this weekend we’ll almost certainly see some nights in the 40s this spring, but they won’t be returning for awhile.