Texas Weather Alert: "Ring of Fire" Heatwave & Gulf Coast Storms!
Texas Weather This Weekend: Hot in Central Texas, Stormy on the Coast
Texas is bracing for a classic summer weekend weather pattern. Central Texas will swelter under a "ring of fire" heat dome, while the Gulf Coast faces the threat of scattered showers and thunderstorms. After enduring multiple days of triple-digit temperatures, Central Texans can expect similar conditions to persist.
A subtropical ridge of high atmospheric pressure, currently centered over New Mexico and West Texas, is exerting its influence as a heat dome over Central Texas. This means plenty of sunshine and typical August heat, with afternoon temperatures hovering near 100 degrees Fahrenheit.
Gulf Coast: Rain and Thunderstorms Expected
If you're planning a final weekend getaway to the Texas Gulf Coast before school starts, be prepared for rain and thunderstorms. An atmospheric disturbance moving in from the east will bring a slight chance of isolated showers and storms each afternoon, particularly east of the Interstate 35 corridor, including areas near La Grange, Giddings, Smithville, and Houston.
Scattered showers and thunderstorms are anticipated each afternoon this weekend along the Texas Gulf Coast. Forecast models indicate the highest chances of rain are predicted for mid-morning on Sunday.
Understanding the "Ring of Fire" Pattern
This summer weather phenomenon is known as the "ring of fire" because thunderstorms and rainfall typically develop along the edges of the high-pressure system. Areas at the center of the ring experience sinking air, which heats up as it compresses near the surface, resulting in higher temperatures and clear skies. Meanwhile, weak atmospheric disturbances move clockwise around the high pressure, bringing rain chances to those along its periphery, including Southeast Texas this weekend.
West Texas Forecast: Rising Temperatures
In West Texas, including Lubbock, temperatures are on the rise. As a relatively drier airmass moves into the region, expect highs in the low to mid-90s, which is average for this time of year. While an isolated shower is possible, dry conditions are expected to prevail.
Stay informed and stay safe this weekend, Texas!