The Houston area is bracing for a prolonged period of rainfall that could extend through the Memorial Day weekend, with the National Weather Service forecasting cumulative totals of 4 to 6 inches of rain by Sunday. The Houston-Galveston Office issued a warning on Tuesday that daily precipitation is likely to continue through Monday, creating concerns about flooding, power disruptions, and hazardous travel conditions across the region.
As of Tuesday morning, the weather service noted a risk of severe weather Tuesday night into Wednesday, with areas north of Interstate 10 facing a slight chance of thunderstorms and isolated hail. Meanwhile, the majority of Harris County and Galveston County were under a marginal risk of severe conditions. The NWS also highlighted a high danger of rip currents along the Galveston coast, a threat that will persist until Wednesday evening, urging residents to avoid coastal waters.
CenterPoint Energy, the primary electricity provider for the Houston area, reported that approximately 2,000 customers were without power by noon on Tuesday, following the initial rounds of rain. The utility company has activated its emergency operations center to monitor the situation and mitigate potential outages as additional storms are expected to sweep through the region.
“There is also a risk of a few of these storms to become strong to severe,” said NWS meteorologist Janice Maldonado, who emphasized that damaging wind gusts and isolated hail are the primary threats if storms intensify. “Small hail with these storms is possible, but the main concern remains wind damage and prolonged rainfall.”
The first wave of storms is expected to bring 1 to 3 inches of rain across Harris County, with a second round of precipitation forecasted for Wednesday evening into Thursday. Maldonado noted that while the total rainfall between Tuesday and Sunday could reach 4 to 6 inches, it will not fall all at once. “It’s important to stay attuned to the forecast, especially as we approach the weekend, because this is a long holiday period,” she said.
Despite the extended rainfall, the NWS has not issued flood watches or advisories for the Houston area as of Tuesday. However, the agency cautioned that forecasts will be updated as the week progresses, with potential shifts in storm intensity and timing. “We will have multiple chances of precipitation, rain, and thunderstorms every day,” Maldonado said. “This will continue on Friday and into the Memorial Day weekend.”
The persistent weather pattern has raised concerns among local officials and residents. The National Weather Service’s Houston-Galveston Office released a rain advisory on May 19, 2026, which underscores the potential for prolonged wet conditions. While no flood alerts have been issued, the cumulative effect of daily rain could lead to localized flooding, particularly in low-lying areas and near waterways.
For those planning outdoor activities over the Memorial Day weekend, the NWS is advising caution. “The heaviest rainfall could occur on any given day, but we don’t have enough data yet to pinpoint the exact timing,” Maldonado said. “Residents should monitor updates closely and avoid unnecessary travel if conditions worsen.”
Emergency preparedness efforts are underway across the region. The NWS has urged residents to secure loose outdoor items, avoid flooded roads, and stay informed through official channels. Meanwhile, local authorities are coordinating with utility companies to ensure rapid response to power outages and other storm-related issues.
Here’s a breakdown of the expected weather timeline:
- Tuesday night to Wednesday morning: Severe weather risk in northern areas, with isolated hail and wind gusts.
- Wednesday evening to Thursday: Return of storms, with additional rainfall across the region.
- Friday to Memorial Day: Continued daily precipitation, with no immediate flood warnings.
For real-time updates, residents are encouraged to follow the National Weather Service’s official website and local news outlets. The Houston-Galveston Office also recommends signing up for weather alerts through the National Weather Service’s email notification system.
The ongoing rain has sparked discussions about climate trends in Texas. A related article, “What the hail? Are hailstorms getting worse in Texas?” explores how changing weather patterns may be influencing storm frequency and intensity in the region. While the NWS has not confirmed a direct link to climate change, meteorologists note that prolonged wet periods are becoming more common in the southern United States.
As the week unfolds, the focus will remain on how the Houston area adapts to the sustained rainfall. With Memorial Day weekend approaching, residents are advised to plan accordingly and prioritize safety. The NWS will continue to refine its forecasts, with the next major update expected by Thursday afternoon.
Stay informed, stay safe, and share this information with neighbors and community groups. Your preparedness can make a difference in navigating the challenges of this extended rainy season.
