Austin, TX – A warm, muggy day across central Texas sets the stage for a major weather pattern shift, as two incoming storm systems prepare to bring multiple rounds of rain, thunderstorms, and potential flooding from tonight through early next week. Temperatures remain unseasonably high this afternoon, ranging from the upper 70s to mid-80s, but conditions will change rapidly as the first system approaches.
Unstable air, lingering moisture, and increasing lift ahead of the disturbance will allow patchy drizzle to transition into isolated thunderstorms later today, marking the beginning of an active several-day stretch of weather across Austin, San Antonio, and the surrounding counties.
First Storm System to Bring Widespread Rain and Thunderstorms
The first system, expected to arrive from Wednesday night through Friday morning, will deliver a broad shield of rainfall across the region. Meteorologists at the National Weather Service Austin–San Antonio note through their latest forecast discussion that this system may produce embedded thunderstorms capable of generating pockets of heavy rainfall.
Flood-prone areas along the I-35 corridor and into the Hill Country are particularly vulnerable. With saturated soils from early showers, even moderate rainfall may lead to flash flooding, especially during overnight hours.
Second Storm System Follows Close Behind
A second wave is forecast to move in between Sunday and Monday, bringing another round of thunderstorms and a renewed risk for heavy rain. While specific severe weather threats are still being evaluated, forecasters caution that strong to severe storms cannot be ruled out with either system.
Counties including Travis, Bexar, Williamson, Comal, Hays, and Guadalupe should stay especially alert, as repeated rounds of rain may heighten flooding risks heading into early next week.
Day-by-Day Rain Chances Increase Across the Region
Rainfall probabilities climb steadily as the first system arrives. According to the NWS:
- Thursday: 55–75% chance of rain regionwide
- Friday: 65–90% chance of widespread rainfall, highest overnight
- Saturday: Briefly drier conditions return before the next system develops
Temperatures will trend downward as moisture deepens. Afternoon highs that reach the mid-80s midweek will fall to seasonal November levels in the low to mid-70s by the weekend. Overnight lows will drop further into the upper 40s and low 50s early next week as the active pattern persists.
Potential Impacts for Central and South-Central Texas
As the systems evolve, residents should be prepared for a variety of weather-related hazards:
- Localised flash flooding in urban and low-lying areas
- Rapid rises in creeks and small streams
- Hazardous driving conditions during periods of heavy rainfall
- Isolated instances of hail or strong winds, depending on storm intensity
Forecasters emphasise the importance of monitoring alerts as weather conditions shift throughout the day and night.
Safety Tips During Severe Weather and Heavy Rain
With multiple rounds of storms possible, residents should take simple steps to stay safe:
- Avoid driving through flooded roadways, even shallow water
- Keep mobile devices charged to receive Wireless Emergency Alerts
- Secure outdoor items that may blow away in strong wind gusts
- Review local flood-prone routes before evening commutes
Even a short-lived thunderstorm can create dangerous conditions when combined with saturated ground and limited visibility.
Forecast Outlook Into Early Next Week
After Friday’s rainfall, a brief lull Saturday provides a chance for the region to dry out before the second, potentially stronger wave arrives Sunday. Cooler temperatures and clearer skies are expected by the middle of next week once both systems exit the region.
Meteorologists will continue refining timing and severity details as new data becomes available, and residents should follow updates from the National Weather Service Austin–San Antonio for the latest information.
What do you think of this weather pattern setting up for Central Texas? Share your experiences in the comments below.
