El Paso woke up to clear skies today, with temperatures already in the upper 70s to low 90s and a high near 97°F on tap. The calm start will not last long. The best chance for showers and thunderstorms arrives this afternoon into Sunday evening, especially along and east of the Rio Grande. Breezy easterly winds, gusty pockets, and brief heavy downpours could make roads slick during the evening drive.
Afternoon Into Tonight
Showers are possible as early as mid-afternoon, with a slight chance between about 2 and 3 p.m. Sunday, then a broader shot later in the afternoon and evening. Daytime rain chances sit around 40%, climbing to about 60% overnight. During the day, rainfall totals look to stay under a tenth of an inch, while overnight storms could drop a quarter to a half inch in spots.
East winds will run from 5 to 14 mph, with gusts up to 21 mph, and some storms could produce damaging winds and hail. According to the National Weather Service, today is the best opportunity for widespread thunderstorms for the next several days.
Heat Safety And Cooling Centers
The storms should knock temperatures down briefly through Monday, but triple-digit readings are likely to return later in the week. The City of El Paso lists recreation centers and libraries that serve as cooling sites during heat events, with common local options including Marty Robbins Recreation Center and Valle Bajo Community Center.
If you are heat-sensitive, plan errands for the morning hours, keep water handy, and check on elderly neighbors. You can call 2-1-1 to find an open cooling center. For more details on staying safe in the heat, see guidance from the City of El Paso.
Midweek Outlook
By Wednesday, highs are expected to climb back into the low 100s with stronger west winds. Later in the week, gusts could reach the 20 to 30 mph range in more exposed spots. That one-two punch of heat and wind raises heat-stress concerns for outdoor workers and anyone planning strenuous activity outside…