Texas starts the first Monday of 2026 under hazy skies, with headlights glowing through fog and damp pavement across the Houston area. The air feels mild but heavy, and visibility drops quickly on neighborhood roads as school traffic returns after the holiday break.
According to the National Weather Service, areas of fog linger through mid-morning across Harris County and nearby suburbs, especially near I-45, U.S. 59, and Beltway 8. Conditions gradually improve late morning as clouds thin and temperatures climb toward the mid-70s.
The warming trend accelerates Tuesday and Wednesday. Highs push into the lower and middle 80s, running well above average for early January. Humidity increases, and south winds keep nights unusually warm, with lows staying in the mid to upper 60s. To be fair, it feels more like late spring than winter.
That warmth sets the stage for changes later in the week. Clouds increase Wednesday night, and a slight chance of showers develops by Thursday. Roads could turn slick during periods of light rain, particularly during the morning and evening commute windows.
By Friday, rain chances rise further, with scattered showers and a few thunderstorms possible before midday. While no freeze concerns appear this week, the warm-to-wet transition matters for travel. Wet roads and reduced visibility may slow traffic during peak hours.
Looking ahead, meteorologists continue tracking broader January patterns that could bring sharper temperature swings later in the month. Daylight steadily increases now, adding nearly 40 extra minutes by the end of January, even as winter patterns remain active nationwide.
Driving this morning or later this week? Let us know what conditions look like where you are.
Five-Day Weather Outlook for Houston, Texas
Monday: Patchy morning fog, then partly sunny. High near 75.
Tuesday: Fog early, then mostly sunny and warmer. High near 81.
Wednesday: Mostly sunny and humid. High near 85.
Thursday: Mostly cloudy, slight chance of showers. High near 79.
Friday: Chance of showers and storms. High near 74.
