Key Takeaways
- A Flood Watch is in effect for most of Southeast Texas, including Harris County, through 7 PM Monday.
- Memorial Day weekend is expected to bring 2–5 inches of rain, with isolated higher totals possible; repeated rounds of storms are likely, especially Saturday afternoon into Sunday morning.
- Street‑flood risk is rated level 2 (out of 4) for both Saturday and Sunday; there is also a level 1 (out of 5) chance for a few strong storms on Saturday, with wind gusts near 60 mph and quarter‑size hail.
- Friday will be warm and humid with only isolated, spotty thunderstorms and a low flood risk, though localized ponding could occur in heavier cells.
- Memorial Day itself should see fewer showers than the prior two days, but residual moisture may still produce scattered rain.
- Residents are urged to monitor updates via the FOX Local or FOX 26 Weather apps and to avoid driving through flooded roadways.
The National Weather Service has issued a Flood Watch that covers virtually all of Southeast Texas, including Harris County, and will remain active until 7 PM on Monday. This watch signals the potential for significant rainfall that could lead to street flooding, flash flooding, and rapid rises in creeks and low‑lying areas. Officials urge anyone encountering water‑covered roads to turn around and seek an alternate route, as even shallow water can conceal hazards and quickly become dangerous.
Friday’s weather sets the stage for the wet weekend ahead. Expect warm, humid conditions with afternoon highs climbing into the mid‑ to upper‑80s °F, and “feels‑like” temperatures hovering near 90 °F. Isolated to spotty afternoon and evening thunderstorms may develop, but the overall flood risk for Friday is considered low. Nevertheless, any stronger cells that do form could produce brief ponding of water on streets or low‑lying spots, so drivers should remain alert for sudden water accumulation.
As the weekend progresses, atmospheric conditions become more favorable for heavier precipitation. Forecast models consistently indicate a substantial round of rain moving into the region from Saturday afternoon through Sunday morning. This period is expected to deliver the bulk of the weekend’s rainfall, with accumulations ranging from 2 to 5 inches across much of the area. Isolated locations could see even higher totals, especially if training thunderstorms repeatedly pass over the same spots.
The increased flood threat is tied to the development of an upper‑level area of low pressure over north Texas. This feature will enhance lift and moisture transport over Houston, creating a conducive environment for prolonged, heavy rain. Consequently, the Storm Prediction Center has assigned a level 2 out of 4 risk for street flooding on both Saturday and Sunday, indicating a moderate chance of water‑related impacts on roadways and drainage systems.
In addition to the flood concerns, there is a modest threat of strong storms on Saturday. The region sits under a level 1 out of 5 risk for a few severe storms, primarily characterized by damaging wind gusts near 60 mph and the possibility of hail up to quarter‑size. While the overall probability of widespread severe weather remains low, these hazards could accompany the heavier rain bands and should be taken into account when planning outdoor activities.
Memorial Day itself is forecast to see a decrease in storm coverage compared with the previous two days. Showers may still occur, but they are expected to be more scattered and less intense. Nonetheless, residual moisture from the weekend’s system could linger, so isolated rain showers are still possible throughout the holiday.
Residents are encouraged to stay informed by downloading the FOX Local or FOX 26 Weather apps, which provide real‑time alerts, radar imagery, and forecast updates. Keeping an eye on the evolving situation will help ensure safety and allow for timely adjustments to travel or outdoor plans during this potentially wet Memorial Day weekend.