Houston, TX – A mid-October heat surge has settled over Southeast Texas, with warm, stagnant air creating new health and safety concerns across the Houston area today. The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) has declared an Ozone Action Day for Houston, Galveston, and Brazoria counties, urging residents to take extra precautions as rising ozone levels trap pollutants near the surface.
Ozone Action Day: Health Advisory in Effect
The TCEQ issued the Ozone Action Day alert in response to the unfavorable weather conditions that are causing pollutants to build up in the region. According to the National Weather Service in Houston/Galveston, the combination of sunshine and light winds today will contribute to the buildup of ozone levels through the afternoon. The pollution can negatively affect air quality, particularly for sensitive groups, including children, seniors, and individuals with respiratory conditions.
Residents are urged to take action to help improve air quality by limiting their car trips, sharing rides, and avoiding unnecessary idling on busy roadways such as I-45 and I-10, where traffic congestion can exacerbate pollution. Health officials recommend that sensitive groups reduce their outdoor activity until air quality improves, which is expected to happen late Wednesday night.
Warm Weather and Calm Conditions Continue
Despite the ozone alert, much of the week remains characterized by calm, warm weather across the region. High temperatures will climb into the upper 80s through Thursday under mostly sunny skies. This persistent warmth is keeping the region firmly entrenched in a fall heatwave that shows no signs of abating until Friday.
Weekend Showers and Humidity Relief
The good news is that a weak cold front is forecasted to bring some relief by Friday. The front will introduce a 40% chance of showers and thunderstorms throughout the day, offering some cooler air and helping to clear the skies. Although these showers will provide temporary relief, residents should expect the humidity to drop slightly, improving air quality for the weekend ahead.
By Saturday and Sunday, fall-like weather will take hold, with lower humidity and temperatures near seasonal norms. This will create perfect conditions for outdoor fall events, such as pumpkin patches and farmers’ markets, which will be dry and sunny following the brief showers on Friday night…