Are you ready for the hottest week of 2026 so far? A strong ridge of high air pressure will take control of our weather pattern this week, bringing a stretch of triple-digit heat to close out the month of July.
So far this month, we’ve recorded three days at or above 100 degrees, and that number is expected to climb with at least five more days of triple-digit temperatures possible by Friday.
Overall, this has been a mild summer so far, especially compared to the past few years.
Sunday forecast
Some clouds will stick around during the morning hours but quickly give way to plenty of sunshine in the afternoon. Temperatures will be around 78 degrees during daybreak and then climb to 99 degrees in the afternoon but feel like 100-plus degrees when you factor in the humidity.
High air pressure in the upper levels of the atmosphere will dominate Texas weather this week, bringing a stretch of hot and rain-free conditions across the state. (Weather Prediction Center)
Winds will be light out of the south and southeast between 5 and 10 mph.
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Upcoming week forecast
The upper-level ridge of high atmospheric pressure over the Four Corners region in the desert Southwest will expand and remain in place throughout the work week, keeping hot and dry weather in the forecast into next weekend.
Meanwhile, persistent southerly winds in the lower levels of the atmosphere will continue to bring increasing humidity to Central Texas, helping temperatures climb into a stretch of triple-digit heat by midweek with heat index readings between 104 and 107 degrees, nearing heat alert criteria.
This prolonged combination of heat and humidity will increase the risk of heat-related illnesses, especially for those more sensitive to the heat and anyone without access to adequate cooling or proper hydration. The National Weather Service’s Heat Risk calculator puts Austin and Central Texas at moderate to major risk, or level 2 and 3 out of 4 risks, throughout the week.
The heat risk on Sunday for Central Texas will range from “minor” to “moderate.” (Weather Prediction Center)
Getting ready for the week, keep in mind these key heat safety tips:
Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day, even if you’re not thirsty. Avoid caffeine and alcohol, which can dehydrate you.
Avoid peak heat times: Stay indoors during the hottest parts of the day (usually mid-afternoon). If you must be outside, stick to early mornings or evenings.
Dress for the heat: Wear lightweight, loose-fitting, breathable clothes – cotton is an excellent choice. Light colors reflect sunlight and help keep you cooler.
Find shade: When outdoors, stay in the shade as much as possible. Use umbrellas, trees, or canopies to shield yourself from direct sunlight.
Cool down: Take cool showers or baths to lower your body temperature. Use fans or air conditioning to circulate air and cool your space.
Never leave kids or pets in cars: A parked car can become dangerously hot in minutes – even with windows cracked. Never leave children or pets unattended, even briefly.
August outlook
While the final week of July is expected to remain dry and rain-free, signs suggest that August could bring a change in the weather pattern with some potential rainfall returning about a week from now.
The outlook from the weather service’s Climate Prediction Center for the next six to 10 days, which extends through Aug. 2, keeps Texas warmer than normal with below-average rainfall expected.
After a week of dry weather, some rain may be entering the picture in early August. The Climate Prediction Center’s rainfall outlook for the next eight to 14 days calls for above-normal rainfall in West and North Texas, and near-normal rainfall for Central Texas. (Climate Prediction Center)
However, the outlook for the next eight to 14 days, which stretches through Aug. 6, offers some hope for a wetter weather pattern, hinting at the possibility of increased rain chances returning across the Lone Star State.
This article originally published at Central Texas to have its hottest week of the year in the coming days: How hot will it get?.