Widespread rain likely today and especially tonight

After three sunny days gray skies and rain return to Houston.

TODAY

Dry air is moving off, and being replaced by moist, warmer air. A disturbance in the upper levels of the atmosphere will bring the impetus for rain. Light showers are possible this morning, with heavier stuff later this afternoon and especially tonight across the Houston area. Although I don’t expect any severe weather, much of the region should see a good 0.5 to 1.5 inches of rain.

THURSDAY and FRIDAY

Although showers will end by Thursday morning, the warmer air will stick around, with temperatures rising to 70 or a little higher on both Thursday and Friday. Both days will see mostly sunny skies, although by Friday evening I expect the return of some clouds. This will set the stage for more rain showers — probably with lesser accumulations than on Wednesday night — on Friday night and Saturday morning.

THE WEEKEND

Skies will begin clearing by or before noon Saturday as a cold front moves through late on Friday or early Saturday morning. The afternoon should be pleasant, with highs in the mid-60s and mostly sunny skies. In the wake of the front Sunday looks cold, with highs in the low 50s under full sunshine.

NEXT WEEK

Houston will remain quite cold through at least Tuesday or Wednesday of next week.]

NOTE

Thanks to Houstonia magazine and Steven Devadanam for the nice mention in January’s issue!