Pollen and air quality issues in Houston Tuesday

Watching the Gulf for possible development

Ragweed is very high with the others not far behind (Copyright 2024 by KPRC Click2Houston - All rights reserved.)

HOUSTON – Welcome to October in Houston! Here’s what we typically see this month.

Tuesday’s Forecast:

We’re your eyes watery this weekend? Mine were and it’s because the ragweed skyrocketed this weekend and Monday. we are also experiencing high levels of elm tree pollen, grass, and mold. These allergens are causing issues for many, particularly those with sensitivities, leading to widespread watery eyes and discomfort. An air quality alert is also in effect through tomorrow for Harris, Brazoria, and Galveston counties. Sunny skies, calm winds, and high temperatures are contributing to elevated ozone levels, potentially affecting residents’ health. Tuesday afternoon highs reach the mid 90s with a slightly higher humidity. The average high this time of year is 88. It’s game one of the Wild Card with the Astros taking on the Tigers. Let’s go Stros!

High levels of ozone are possible Tuesday (Copyright 2024 by KPRC Click2Houston - All rights reserved.)
Current air quality:
No description found
Highs climb to the mid 90s (Copyright 2024 by KPRC Click2Houston - All rights reserved.)
Tracking the tropics:

The Caribbean and The Gulf of Mexico are quiet for now, but there is a 40% chance a tropical system develops in the Gulf over the next seven days. This percentage is down from 50% this past weekend. Strong wind shear is inhibiting formation and may prevent this area of storms from getting organized. All we can do is watch this for any signs of formation. When there isn’t an organized system the outcomes are wide ranging and that is what the long range models are showing. We’ll keep you updated daily on how this system is coming along.

40% chance a depression or storm forms in the orange colored area (Copyright 2024 by KPRC Click2Houston - All rights reserved.)
The red color is high wind shear (Copyright 2024 by KPRC Click2Houston - All rights reserved.)
10-day Forecast:

Our next small chance of rain is Friday, lasting through the weekend. There is also a cool front that may move through Monday lowering temperatures slightly next week. We are still waiting on our first “real” cold front that moves highs to the 70s and mornings in the 50s. This usually always happens in the month of October.

What to expect through Thursday of next week (Copyright 2024 by KPRC Click2Houston - All rights reserved.)

About the Author
Anthony Yanez headshot

Chief meteorologist and recipient of the 2022 American Meteorological Society’s award for Excellence in Science Reporting by a Broadcast Meteorologist.