Houston, Texas, offers a diverse climate that ranges from hot summers to mild winters, making it an intriguing city for residents and visitors.
The hottest month of the year in Houston is August, with an average high of 94°F and low of 77°F, ensuring plenty of sunny days for outdoor activities.
During the cool season, which lasts from late November to late February, the daily high temperature stays below 70°F, providing a much-needed break from the heat.
The year-round weather in Houston, located in Harris County, is influenced by its geographical position in the state of Texas.
Summers are long, lasting from May to September, with high humidity and frequent rain showers.
Winters are short and generally mild, making it one of the more comfortable seasons to enjoy the city’s attractions without extreme cold.
Despite the heat, the climate in Houston has its benefits. The city experiences a wide range of temperatures and weather conditions, from warm and rainy springs to comparatively cooler autumns.
These factors contribute to a dynamic environment that supports various outdoor activities and events throughout the year.
For more detailed climate data, you can explore comprehensive resources on Houston’s average weather yearly.
Average Temperature In Houston, Texas
Houston experiences a wide range of temperatures throughout the year.
In January, the coldest month, the average low temperature is around 47°F, and the average high is 64°F.
February tends to be a bit warmer, with average lows of 50°F and highs of 68°F.
By March, temperatures rise further, with averages ranging from 55°F to 73°F.
April sees even warmer days, with lows around 61°F and highs reaching 79°F.
In May, the city experiences warmer temperatures, with average lows of 68°F and highs around 85°F.
June marks the beginning of the hot season, with daily high temperatures averaging around 90°F and lows at 74°F.
The hottest month is August, with an average high of 94°F and low of 77°F.
Temperatures in July are also very hot, with highs averaging 92°F and lows around 76°F.
By September, the average high temperature drops to 88°F, and the low averages 72°F.
Then, October sees cooler temperatures, with highs around 80°F and lows of 63°F.
In November, temperatures further drop, with average highs of 71°F and lows at 54°F.
Finally, December continues to cool down, averaging high temperatures of 64°F and lows around 48°F.
Average Precipitation In Houston, Texas
Houston experiences significant annual rainfall, mostly as rain rather than snow. The city has distinct wetter and drier seasons, affecting the overall precipitation patterns.
Average Rainfall In Houston, Texas
Houston sees considerable rainfall spread throughout the year. The city receives about 45.28 inches of rain annually.
May and June are the wettest months, each with about 5.5 inches of rain.
The rainiest days usually occur from late spring to early summer.
The monthly rainfall often influences daily activities as it can vary greatly.
Rainfall usually comes in short bursts, especially during thunderstorms, making predicting exact amounts for any single day tricky.
Rain alone is the primary form of precipitation, as snow is rare here.
The drier season in Houston typically occurs during winter, specifically from November to February, when the city sees less than 3 inches of rain monthly.
Average Snow In Houston, Texas
Snowfall is a rarity in Houston. On average, the city receives less than 1 inch of snow per year.
This minimal amount of snowfall usually occurs in January, which is the coldest month.
Snow events in Houston are often light, leading to minor accumulations that melt quickly.
When snow does fall, it often results in significant disruptions. Schools and businesses might close due to the city’s limited infrastructure for dealing with snowy or icy conditions.
Winters in Houston are typically mild, with snow alone being a rare weather phenomenon. Thus, snowfall is often more of an anomaly than a regular occurrence.
Average Sun In Houston, Texas
Houston, Texas experiences a range of sunlight throughout the year. The amount of daylight varies significantly, impacting the duration and intensity of sunlight residents receive daily.
Average Daily Shortwave Solar Energy In Houston, Texas
The city of Houston gets an average daily shortwave solar energy that changes with the seasons.
In summer, the sun’s path is higher in the sky, leading to longer days and more intense sunlight. The longest day of the year, around June 21, can have up to 14 hours of daylight.
In winter, the sun is lower in the sky. Days are shorter, and the shortest day occurs around December 21, with only about 10 hours of daylight.
These changes affect not only daylight hours but also the amount and duration of twilight.
Spring and fall have moderate sunlight, with around 12 hours of daylight.
Sunrise and sunset times shift gradually, affecting the daily amount of solar energy.
With this, the city’s sunshine duration varies significantly, influencing weather patterns and daily life in Houston.
Average Humidity In Houston, Texas
Houston experiences a humid climate year-round. The relative humidity stays fairly consistent, making the air feel muggy.
Monthly Humidity
In Houston, the average percentage of humidity ranges between 73% and 77%.
- September is the most humid month with an average relative humidity of 77%.
- March is the least humid month with an average of 73%.
Yearly Humidity
- The yearly average humidity in Houston is 75%.
Comfort Levels
The high humidity levels often make it feel muggy. This is especially noticeable during the summer months when the combination of heat and humidity can be intense.
| Month | Average Relative Humidity (%) |
|---|---|
| January | 75% |
| February | 74% |
| March | 73% |
| April | 74% |
| May | 75% |
| June | 76% |
| July | 76% |
| August | 76% |
| September | 77% |
| October | 76% |
| November | 75% |
| December | 75% |
Average Wind In Houston, Texas
Houston’s wind patterns vary across the year. Houston experiences a moderate wind speed throughout the seasons, with some variation.
Wind speeds typically range from 5 to 15 miles per hour. These speeds are influenced by various factors including the time of day. The winds are generally stronger during the afternoon.
| Month | Avg. Wind Speed (mph) |
|---|---|
| January | 7 |
| April | 9 |
| July | 6 |
| October | 8 |
Wind speeds can be influenced by local weather patterns as well.
In the morning hours, wind speeds are usually lower, gradually increasing by the afternoon.
The wind direction is often from the south-east, contributing to the warm, humid climate.
Monitor local weather forecasts for daily wind predictions.
This helps in planning activities that might be affected by wind, such as outdoor sports or flying drones.
Average Air Quality In Houston, Texas
Houston’s air quality varies throughout the year.
According to the 2019 World Air Quality Report, the city ranks 244th out of 1,517 US cities for highest PM2.5 levels.
PM2.5 are small particles that can cause respiratory issues.
Houston has experienced a rise in both PM2.5 and ozone pollution since 2017.
Days with high pollution levels can be challenging for people with asthma and other respiratory conditions.
Air Quality Index (AQI):
- Good: 0-50
- Moderate: 51-100
- Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups: 101-150
- Unhealthy: 151-200
- Very Unhealthy: 201-300
- Hazardous: 301-500
In general, the air quality in Houston is moderate.
It improves significantly on days when the sky is clear or partly cloudy. Days with mostly cloudy skies or sky covered by clouds tend to have lower air quality.
The winter months usually have better air quality as lower temperatures and less sunshine reduce ozone formation.
| Month | Average AQI | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| January | 45 | Winter months have better air quality |
| April | 65 | Increasing PM2.5 |
| July | 75 | Higher ozone levels |
| October | 55 | Air quality starts to improve |
July, often being the hottest month, correlates with poorer air quality due to increased ozone levels.
Conversely, clearer and less cloudy days typically promote better air conditions.
Topography of Houston, Texas
Houston is situated in Southeast Texas, just 50 miles from the Gulf of Mexico.
The city lies predominantly on flat, coastal plains, making it part of the larger Gulf Coastal Plain region.
Elevation
Houston’s elevation varies quite slightly, ranging from about 50 feet above sea level to an average of 80 feet in certain areas.
This low elevation contributes to the city’s susceptibility to flooding during heavy rainfall.
Geographic Coordinates
The geographic coordinates of Houston are approximately 29.76° N latitude and 95.37° W longitude.
These coordinates place the city in a humid subtropical climate zone, influencing its weather patterns.
Major Landmark
George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) is one of the major landmarks in the region.
The airport is located about 23 miles north of Downtown Houston, offering a significant hub for both domestic and international travel.
Bodies of Water
Houston is near several significant bodies of water, including Buffalo Bayou and the San Jacinto River.
These waterways play a crucial role in the local ecosystem and also impact the city’s drainage and flood prevention strategies.
Soil and Vegetation
The city’s soil composition is predominantly clay, sand, and silt.
This diverse mix supports a variety of vegetation, including tall grasses, shrubs, and numerous types of trees, such as oaks and pines.
Houston’s flat terrain and close proximity to the Gulf of Mexico create unique challenges and benefits for its residents. Understanding Houston’s topography helps explain many of the climatic and environmental conditions experienced in the area.
Extreme Weather Events That Occur In Houston, Texas
Houston, Texas, often experiences severe thunderstorms.
These storms can bring heavy rain, hail, and strong winds.
It’s common for the city to see flash flooding due to its flat terrain and rapid water accumulation.
Hurricanes are another major concern for Houston.
Hurricane Harvey in 2017 dropped over 60 inches of rain in nearby Nederland, Texas, setting a U.S. record for tropical cyclone rainfall. This caused massive flooding and significant damage to homes and infrastructure.
Tropical storms also affect the area, bringing intense rain and winds.
These storms can lead to power outages and flooding, disrupting daily life.
The city also deals with extreme heat.
Summers can see temperatures soaring above 100°F, which can be dangerous for vulnerable populations and strain the energy grid.
Winter storms, though less frequent, can still occur.
Houston experienced a significant winter storm in 2021, which caused widespread power outages and challenges for residents unaccustomed to cold weather conditions.
Here is a summary of the types of extreme weather events Houston faces:
| Event Type | Frequency | Key Impacts |
|---|---|---|
| Thunderstorms | Common | Flooding, hail, strong winds |
| Hurricanes | Occasional | Severe flooding, infrastructure damage |
| Tropical Storms | Frequent | Heavy rain, power outages |
| Extreme Heat | Annual | Health risks, energy grid strain |
| Winter Storms | Rare | Power outages, unprepared populace |
Regular attention to weather forecasts and preparedness plans is essential for residents to stay safe during these events. For more detailed information on weather events, you can visit the National Centers for Environmental Information.
Best Time Of The Year To Visit Houston, Texas
Houston, Texas, offers a variety of experiences throughout the year, influenced by its humid subtropical climate.
Each season provides different opportunities and challenges for visitors, from warm-weather activities to dealing with the hot season.
What Is Houston, Texas Like In Spring
Spring is an excellent time to visit Houston. From February to April, temperatures are mild, averaging from the mid-60s to mid-80s Fahrenheit.
This period is ideal for outdoor activities like visiting parks, gardens, and attending local festivals.
Wildflowers are in bloom, making places like the Houston Arboretum & Nature Center wonderful to explore.
Rainfall is moderate, but it rarely disrupts plans.
Tourism scores are high in spring, as the weather is pleasant and there are fewer crowds compared to summer.
What Is Houston, Texas Like In Summer
Summers in Houston can be hot and humid, with temperatures often reaching the mid-90s Fahrenheit.
The heat can be oppressive, especially in July and August.
This is the peak tourist season, making popular attractions like the Houston Zoo and Space Center Houston more crowded.
Afternoon thunderstorms are common, providing brief relief from the heat.
Indoor activities, such as visiting museums or shopping centers, are popular during the hot season.
Visitors should prepare for the high humidity by wearing lightweight clothing and staying hydrated.
What Is Houston, Texas Like In Fall
Fall is another great time to visit Houston. From September to November, the temperatures range from the upper-70s to mid-80s Fahrenheit.
The weather is similar to spring, making it ideal for warm-weather activities without the intense heat of summer.
During these months, Houston experiences fewer tourists, so it’s easier to explore attractions and enjoy events.
Fall festivals and outdoor events are common, giving visitors a chance to experience local culture.
Rainfall decreases, making outdoor plans more predictable.
What Is Houston, Texas Like In Winter
Winters in Houston are mild, with temperatures usually ranging from the mid-40s to mid-60s Fahrenheit. Snow is rare, making it an appealing destination for those looking to escape colder climates.
This season sees fewer tourists, allowing for a more relaxed visit.
Outdoor activities are still possible, and places like the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo begin to ramp up preparations. Occasional cold fronts can bring chilly days, so packing layers is advisable.
The lack of a snowy period means fewer disruptions for travel plans.