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How Hot Does Texas Get in the Summer?
5 minute read • Last update February 2024
If you’re considering moving to Texas, you’re probably interested in learning more about the unique weather patterns of the Lone Star State. Researching Texas summer weather will no doubt be a top priority. Famous for its soaring temperatures and muggy, humid air, preparedness is key.
In this handy guide, we’ll dive into what to expect when you spend your first summer in Texas, including:
- When the hot summer season starts and ends
- Average summer temperatures in Texas
- Regional variations in Texas summer weather
- Tips to help you stay safe as the extreme heat kicks in and humidity levels rise
What is Texas summer weather like?
Covering an area of 268,597 square miles, Texas is 1.65 times larger than California, accounting for roughly 7% of America’s total land mass. Spanning vast landscapes incorporating flat desert plains, forested mountainous areas, and everything in between, summer weather patterns range from comfortable sunshine-filled days to heat waves and droughts. Here’s a quick breakdown of some of the most commonly asked questions about Texas summer weather.
When does summer start in Texas?
While the official date for the start of summer in Texas is typically cited as June 1, the precise start date for each season varies regionally. For example, in coastal east Texas cities like Houston, the shift to summer may begin earlier, while inland regions like Amarillo might witness slight delays.
When does summer end in Texas?
As with the start of the season, regional variances are to be expected. However, as a general rule, summer usually concludes at the end of August, with September welcoming the gradual decline of scorching daytime temperatures.
What is the hottest month in Texas?
The most extreme temperatures across the state are usually recorded in July. Thermometer readings regularly reach the mid to late 90s (°F), and triple-digit temperatures are not unheard of in the hottest of summers.
How hot can Texas get?
Precisely, how hot is it in Texas in the summertime? That depends on where you go.
However, 2023 marked the hottest summer in over a decade and one of the most blistering on record, with nearly all locations reporting higher-than-average heat and humidity readings:
- The average summer temperature in Texas was 85.3°F
- The average daily high was 98.3°F
- Austin experienced 78 days of triple-digit temperatures
- June, July, and August 2023 were the third-hottest and fourth-driest in North Texas history
Texas summer weather by region
Given the sheer size of Texas, it’s essential that prospective new residents know what to expect. However, the unconventional shape of the Lone Star State makes it difficult to simply divide the state into North, South, East, and West regions when describing its climate.
In terms of nature, wildlife, habitats, and landscapes, one of the best ways to divide Texas is into 10 distinct ecoregions. However, that’s not ideal from a residential perspective either. Instead, the most accurate way is to split Texas into Northern, Southern, Central, and Western regions.
North Texas
Thinking of moving to Dallas, Amarillo, or Lubbock? The varied landscape across this vast region comprises a mix of high plains, rolling plains, cross timbers, prairies, and piney woods.
This region experiences a semi-arid climate with year-round sun. Nights may feel relatively cool. However, daytime highs often hover around the mid-90s to low 100s. Although drought-prone, the region is known for occasional thunderstorms, sometimes providing short-term relief from extreme heat.
West Texas
Stretching from El Paso to Odessa, Western Texas is home to Guadalupe Mountains National Park and Big Bend National Park — named after the deep sweep in the Rio Grande River that divides the United States and Mexico.
Comprising a combination of desert valleys and wooded mountain slopes, elevations range from 2,500 feet to more than 8,749 feet across the region. The average West Texas temperature in summer regularly exceeds 100°F, making it one of the hottest parts of the state, and dust storms are not uncommon.
Central Texas
The central part of Texas encompasses cities like Austin and San Antonio. This area has a varied climate due to a mix of coastal and inland elements. Home to the Edwards Plateau region (more commonly known as Texas Hill Country), elevations range from slightly less than 100 feet to over 3,000 feet.
Residents should be prepared for high daytime temperatures ranging from the mid-90s to the low 100s. However, the humidity often makes the heat feel more intense, and thunderstorms are frequent, meaning there’s a heightened risk of flash floods.
South Texas
Southern Texas incorporates cities like Houston and Corpus Christi to the East, Laredo to the West, and Brownsville at the tip of the South Texas Plains in the Rio Grande Valley. Thorny shrubs and trees adorn the land, interrupted by scattered patches of palms and subtropical woodlands.
Summers here are characterized by high humidity and average temperatures reaching the mid to upper 90s. The coastal influence brings occasional afternoon showers, providing relief from the heat but also contributing to the mugginess of ambient weather conditions.
Why is Texas so hot in the summer?
The scorching temperatures that define Texas summers stem from a unique combination of geographical and meteorological influences, among a few other factors:
- Latitude and sun angle – The position of Texas close to the equator results in more direct sunlight, increasing the intensity of solar radiation
- Prolonged daytime hours – During the summer, Texas experiences longer daylight hours, allowing for extended heating of the land
- Proximity to the Gulf of Mexico – Prevailing southerly winds sweep humidity into and across Texas during the summer months
- Expansive inland areas – Shielded from coastal influences, with a lack of significant natural barriers, heat spreads across plateau areas easily
- Humidity – The combination of extreme heat and humidity intensifies the perceived temperature, making summers feel even hotter
Tips for a safe and fun Texas summer
While it’s true that the Texas summer brings intense heat, it’s entirely possible to enjoy the season by taking a few simple precautions to stay safe. Best practices include:
- Drinking water regularly and carrying a reusable water bottle to make it easier to hydrate on the go
- Applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 before heading outdoors, and reapplying after swimming or sweating
- Planning outdoor activities outside peak sun hours and ensuring ample shade between 10 am and 4 pm to reduce direct exposure
- Opting for lightweight, light-colored, and loose-fitting clothing. A wide-brimmed hat can also help you stay cool
- Taking a refreshing dip in one of Texas’ natural swimming holes like Hamilton Pool Preserve near Austin, Jacob’s Well in Wimberley, or the Blue Hole in Georgetown
- Keeping an eye on weather forecasts, advisories, and warnings to stay updated on sudden weather changes, especially during hurricane season
- Visiting indoor attractions with air conditioning on exceptionally hot days
Stay cool with affordable electricity plans from BKVE
As Texas continues to grapple with the challenges of its intense summer weather, ensuring access to air conditioning and cooling systems fueled by an efficient energy plan is, quite rightly, a primary concern for many residents.
At BKVE, we’re proud to offer simple and affordable electricity to homes across Texas. Our low cost plans make it easier to beat the heat at home without racking up enormous energy bills. Reach out to BKVE today to discover how our affordable energy plans can help you stay cool all summer.
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