The rain is back, but the second half of the weekend looks splendid

As high pressure has scooted east of the area, low pressure has returned, and along with it plenty of moisture that will fall as rain the next few days. Rain chances will remain above 50 percent through Saturday, before a front arrives to bring us some much nicer weather—we still anticipate an outstanding second half of the weekend.

Thursday

Rains developed offshore late Wednesday, and have moved into coastal areas this morning. So far amounts have been more than manageable, with about one-quarter inch the maximum amount. But this surge of low-level moisture and low pressure will nonetheless make for a wet and gray day, with highs struggling to reach 60 degrees. Most of the area likely will not see more than one-quarter to one-half inch of rain. With the southerly flow, temperatures Thursday night will not fall much as on-and-off mostly light to moderate showers continue.

Friday

Friday will be warmer, with cloudy skies, and highs in the 70s. With more moisture moving in Friday, we can expect more come-and-go rain showers. Again, there should be no real concerns with accumulations, as this will be just another gray, wet, albeit warmer day in Houston. The greater rain accumulations—one inch or more—should occur well to the north and northeast of the region. Lows Friday night may not fall below 70 along the coast, and probably will only drop into the upper 60s for the city.

Saturday

This will be another warm day, for February, with our accustomed gray skies and rain chances. A broken line of showers will probably move through the region around noon, heralding the arrival of a cold front and some drier air. (Severe weather chances, as shown in the map below, are much better to the northeast). After this, the rains will end, and Saturday afternoon and evening should see clearing skies. Lows Saturday night will fall to around 50 degrees in Houston, a bit warmer near the coast, and a bit cooler inland.

Sunday

What a day! Highs in the upper 60s. Sunny skies. Moderate, dry winds. Make your outdoor plans now.

Next week

Forecast models are now in generally good agreement that most of Monday should remain dry, before some rain chances return Tuesday. We should see a general warming trend through Wednesday, before some kind of front cools the second half of next week off.