Severe weather threat ramps up across southeast Texas
On Tuesday, much of southeast Texas, including the Houston metropolitan area, faces an elevated risk for severe thunderstorms, torrential rain, and localized flooding. The National Weather Service has issued a Flood Watch beginning at 7 a.m. for several counties north of Houston — including Grimes, Walker, Polk, San Jacinto, and Trinity — following recent heavy rain that has left the ground saturated.
Expected impacts by region
The most intense rainfall is expected north of Houston, where up to 4 inches (101 mm) of rain is very likely, especially in the morning and early afternoon hours. Closer to the city, spotty totals of up to 3 inches (76 mm) may develop by late afternoon into the evening, particularly impacting the northern and western suburbs like Tomball, The Woodlands, and Cypress.
Though Houston itself is not yet under any official advisory, brief but intense downpours may still occur, especially during the late commute hours. Some of these cells could bring small hail and gusty winds over 50 mph (80 km/h).
Tuesday: FOX 26 Storm Alert Day
Tuesday has been declared a FOX 26 Storm Alert Day, highlighting the increased risk of severe conditions. The cool and dry Monday will quickly give way to cloudy skies, breezy winds, and developing storms throughout Tuesday. High temperatures will hover near 80°F (27°C), but cooler where rain falls early.
Some rain may linger into early Wednesday, though the bulk of the activity is expected to move east overnight.
Hurricane season countdown begins
As meteorologist Allison Gargaro noted, the countdown is on: Atlantic hurricane season officially begins on June 1. With soil moisture already high across East Texas and El Niño conditions transitioning, the region is bracing for increased vulnerability to tropical systems this summer.
