Texas is hot and dry! For how long?

Most of Texas is in for a week-long stretch of dry weather. Hotter-than-normal temperatures will accompany the dry weather, which could worsen the drought in some parts of the state.

Comparing the latest drought monitor against the one issued in late August shows worsening levels across parts of North Texas, from Childress through Dallas. The drought has also increased across a big chunk of Southeast Texas, especially around the San Jacinto River and surrounding counties. Western Texas, continues to deal with the most severe drought across Van Horn to Pecos and Marfa, around the I-10 region, where this level has been present since late July.

This week, high pressure will continue to hinder the chance of rain and storms. With more sunshine, temperatures will be toasty across much of the state and feeling hotter across many cities. Austin could come close to hitting or tying the old record of 97 degrees. Thursday will also be very hot for the Metroplex, as the afternoon temperatures will likely surpass the mid-90s.

Across Southeast Texas, there will be a front that could retract to the north, along with an upper-level disturbance that will increase cloud coverage from the south, forming a few showers. The clouds and breeze will keep the afternoon temperatures in the upper 80s. This upper-level disturbance could produce an isolated storm as far inland as San Antonio and Austin, especially on Saturday.

The next front will sweep through the Lone Star State on Monday. The big changes will be felt across the northern half of Texas, where fresh air could filter enough south to keep low in the 50s and highs in the low to mid-80s. It will be a good taste of fall. The front will increase rain chances for the central and southeastern part of Texas, with scattered showers, but a slight drop in temperatures will come by the middle of next week.