Houston, Texas – Southeast Texas is waking up to a blustery Monday as strong winds and cooler air move across the Houston metro, creating a noticeably different feel from recent mild mornings. Gusty conditions are expected to linger through the first half of the day before easing ahead of a steady warmup into New Year’s 2026.
Gusty Winds Create Choppy Morning Conditions
Early Monday, conditions around the city are defined by fast-moving clouds and stiff winds. At Houston Hobby Airport, temperatures hovered near 60 degrees under overcast skies, with wind gusts approaching 30 mph. Those winds are making travel trickier, especially for drivers in high-profile vehicles.
Elevated roadways such as Interstate 45, Interstate 10, and the Sam Houston Tollway are particularly vulnerable to sudden crosswinds during the morning commute. Drivers are urged to maintain firm steering control and allow extra space when passing trucks or buses.
Clouds Gradually Break as Temperatures Stay Cool
Cloud cover remains stubborn through the morning hours, but conditions begin to improve by late morning and midday. Skies slowly brighten, allowing filtered sunshine to return across much of the metro area.
Despite the clearing trend, temperatures stay on the cool side. Afternoon highs reach only the low 50s, which is below average for Houston but still manageable for outdoor errands. Winds remain breezy into early afternoon before gradually relaxing later in the day.
Cooler Monday Night Ahead
Once the sun sets, temperatures drop quickly. Overnight lows are expected to dip near 39 degrees across the Houston area. While a widespread freeze is not anticipated within the city limits, suburban and rural areas may feel noticeably colder.
Residents with sensitive plants should keep an eye on overnight conditions, and pets will need warm shelter during the night. The cooler air marks one of the chilliest nights Houston has seen in recent weeks.
Sunshine and Calmer Weather Return Tuesday
By Tuesday, Southeast Texas gets a welcome break from the wind. Sunshine dominates the forecast, and lighter breezes make for improved travel and outdoor conditions. Afternoon highs rebound into the mid-50s, signaling the start of a warming trend.
The calm weather sets the stage for increasingly pleasant conditions as the region moves toward the end of the year.
New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day Turn Mild
The warming pattern strengthens midweek. New Year’s Eve arrives with sunny skies and highs near 63 degrees, making it comfortable for evening plans and outdoor celebrations.
New Year’s Day 2026 looks almost springlike by Houston standards. Mostly sunny skies and highs around 72 degrees create ideal conditions for travel, family gatherings, and holiday events. Mild temperatures continue into the first days of the new year, with highs pushing toward 80 degrees by Friday.
Five-Day Outlook for Houston, Texas
- Monday: Breezy, gradually sunnier, high 52
- Tuesday: Sunny and calmer, high 54
- Wednesday: Sunny and warmer, high 63
- New Year’s Day: Mostly sunny and warm, high 72
- Thursday: Mostly cloudy, mild, high 61
What Houston Residents Should Know
The key takeaway is timing. Dress for wind and cooler air today, especially during the morning and evening hours. After Monday night, jackets become optional as sunshine and warmer temperatures take over just in time for the new year.
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