Houston is bracing for a growing Saharan dust presence combined with persistent heat, as high pressure keeps temperatures in the 90s and limits rainfall through the week.
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A surge of Saharan dust is expected to move into the Houston area in the coming days, combining with persistent heat to create hazy skies and continued summer conditions across Southeast Texas. Forecasters say a modest plume of Saharan dust will arrive later this week, with a potentially larger wave expected to reach Texas by early next week. Prevailing winds carry the dust across the Atlantic, and it becomes more noticeable as it moves into the Gulf Coast region.
At the same time, a strong dome of high pressure remains in place over the area, keeping temperatures in the low to mid-90s and limiting rain development.
Houston is experiencing both heat and dust, as the same weather pattern that suppresses rainfall also allows airborne particles to linger in the atmosphere.
Despite the heat, meteorologists say humidity levels may remain slightly lower than typical for late June. Dew point temperatures are expected to stay somewhat moderated, which could prevent heat index values from reaching thresholds that would trigger advisories from the National Weather Service.
The high-pressure system is also expected to keep skies mostly clear, with limited cloud cover and little chance for meaningful rainfall through at least the weekend.
Daytime highs are forecast to remain in the lower to middle 90s, while overnight lows will settle into the 70s. The stable pattern is expected to persist into next week as the larger dust plume approaches.
Saharan dust events are common during the summer months and can lead to hazy skies, colorful sunsets and occasional impacts on air quality, particularly for sensitive groups.
Officials advise residents to stay hydrated, limit prolonged outdoor exposure during peak heat hours and monitor local forecasts as conditions evolve.
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