Saharan haze continues ahead of July 4th holiday

0

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — Storm chances drop to 10% on Wednesday as Saharan haze continues to linger over Southeast Texas.

Temperatures this morning are starting in mid-upper 70s and will quickly climb into the mid 90s Wednesday. Despite the dry, dusty air, there will still be enough moisture for a 10% chance of a late afternoon downpour, and we are right on the edge of some tropical moisture that will kick a few extra clouds our way. Nevertheless, the heat and the haze are the main impacts for Wednesday with heat index values expected to be around 100 Wednesday afternoon.

How long does this Saharan dust stick around?

The first dust cloud impacting us now will depart on Thursday. The second dust cloud is moving in for the Fourth of July and the day after. This Saharan dust will lead to a hazy gray sky, vibrant sunrises and sunsets, and a reduction in air quality for those who are sensitive to particulate matter, allergic to the dust, or have underlying respiratory issues.

What’s the outlook for July 4th and the Freedom Over Texas fireworks show?

At this time, it looks dry but hot! Temperatures will peak in the upper 90s with heat index values well above 100. Heat advisories are possible, and that heat will stick around for the entire weekend! There is also a 10% chance of a shower in the late afternoon, but we should have a rain-free sky for fireworks time!

What’s happening in the tropics?

We are watching a zone of potential development near Florida as a weak front stalls out just offshore from the Gulf Coast and the East Coast. For a thorough update and in-depth video on what’s happening in the tropics, head to our tropical update page.

This story comes from our news partner ABC13 Houston.

Keep up with all things Houston with us on Que Onda Magazine.