HOUSTON — Labor Day will remain hot and humid across Southeast Texas, with only isolated to scattered afternoon thunderstorms expected before deeper tropical moisture increases rain chances across the Houston area by Wednesday.
Temperatures will climb into the low to mid-90s inland on Monday, with Houston expected to reach around 93 degrees. Coastal areas will see highs in the upper 80s to lower 90s.
The combination of heat and humidity could push heat index values to between 102 and 107 degrees.
Isolated storms expected Monday
A few showers and thunderstorms are expected to develop along the sea breeze during the afternoon, mainly near and south of Interstate 10.
Most areas farther inland are expected to remain dry, with Labor Day likely to be somewhat drier than the past several days.
Although no Heat Advisory is currently in effect, prolonged exposure to the heat could still pose health risks, particularly for people working or exercising outdoors.
Forecasters recommend drinking plenty of water, taking frequent breaks in air conditioning or shade, limiting strenuous activity during the hottest part of the day and wearing lightweight, light-colored clothing.
Residents should also check on children, older adults and pets.
Drivers are reminded to look before they lock, as temperatures inside parked vehicles can become dangerous within minutes. Children and pets should never be left unattended in a vehicle.
Tuesday could be even hotter
Hot and humid conditions will continue Tuesday, with temperatures rising into the mid to upper 90s across inland areas.
Houston is expected to reach around 95 degrees, while heat index values could climb as high as 103 to 108 degrees.
Rain chances will remain relatively low at around 30 percent, with isolated to scattered afternoon showers and thunderstorms again most likely near and south of I-10.
Rain chances increase Wednesday
A change in the weather pattern is expected Wednesday as deeper tropical moisture moves back into Southeast Texas.
Rain chances in Houston will increase to around 50 percent, with scattered showers and thunderstorms becoming more likely.
Some storms could produce locally heavy rainfall, with the potential for isolated areas to receive one to two inches of rain in a short period.
Daily storm chances are expected to continue through the remainder of the week.
Heat stress remains a concern
Wet Bulb Globe Temperature values are forecast to reach the upper 80s to lower 90s at times this week.
Those conditions could create moderate to high heat stress, particularly for people involved in strenuous outdoor work, sports or exercise for extended periods.
Officials recommend taking regular breaks, staying hydrated and paying attention to signs of heat-related illness.
Tropics remain quiet near the Gulf
The Atlantic, Caribbean and Gulf of Mexico remain relatively quiet, with no tropical development expected in those areas over the next seven days.
However, Hurricane Lowell is posing a significant threat in the Central Pacific.
Lowell is a Category 3 hurricane with maximum sustained winds of 115 mph and is approaching the western Hawaiian Islands.
A Hurricane Warning is in effect for Kauai County, including Kauai and Niihau.
The storm is expected to pass just west of the main Hawaiian Islands Monday night.
Forecasters warn of hurricane-force wind gusts, flash flooding, mudslides, dangerous surf and storm surge.
Kauai could receive 6 to 10 inches of rainfall, with isolated totals reaching up to 14 inches. Several tornadoes are also possible near Kauai and Niihau from Monday afternoon through Monday night.
