Lighning flashed and dark clouds rolled in, brining Galvestonians an unaccustomed break from the heat and drought that have plagued our lovely island.

Yes, it finally rained! The storms brought Galveston its first measurable precipitation since June 3. A relatively cool 86 degree high also broke a string of 90 plus degree afternoons stretching back to June 18.

There is some chance that a few thunderstorms may develop over northeast Texas today and drift into our area later. There will also be a possibility for a few brief showers along the sea-breeze front during the afternoons, but the overall outlook is for a return to hotter and drier than normal weather over the next few days. 

So, the wet "spell" may be brief indeed. The high pressure that has contributed to our prolonged drought is expected to build to the east into our area, bringing back the heat and dry conditions. Sadly, the long-range forecasts suggest that this pattern may remain in place through mid-July, and even beyond.

Oh well, the break was welcome even if it turns out to be less than what is needed for our parched area!

Below is the current water vapor image, showing dry air flowing back into Texas. Also, below is an forecast map of the upper-levels, showing high pressure firmly in grip over Texas by this weekend and the long-range precipitation forecasts for the U.S. (all courtesy of NOAA):