El Paso, Texas, is bracing for a mix of thunderstorms and intense heat as the city heads into the Fourth of July weekend. A weather alert has been issued, with scattered thunderstorms expected Thursday night, followed by soaring temperatures over the weekend. Drivers and outdoor enthusiasts are advised to stay cautious, especially with slick roads and sudden wind gusts expected during the storms.
Thunderstorms and Winds on Thursday Night
According to the National Weather Service (NWS) in El Paso, the city is likely to experience a 50% chance of thunderstorms Thursday evening, especially before 10 p.m. Along with the rain, wind gusts of up to 15 mph are expected. While rainfall will generally remain light, with totals under a tenth of an inch, localized downpours could cause minor flooding, particularly around low-lying intersections. Drivers should be prepared for slick roads and gusty winds, which could make travel challenging.
Sunny and Scorching July 4th Weekend
As the Fourth of July approaches, the weather is expected to clear up just in time for outdoor celebrations. Friday will be mostly sunny with a high of 94°F and northwest winds at around 9 mph. Saturday will bring a sharp heat surge, with temperatures reaching 101°F under cloudless skies. Sunday will be just as hot, with temperatures near 100°F. For those celebrating outdoors, it’s important to take precautions. Be sure to stay hydrated, limit time in direct sunlight, and avoid leaving pets or children in vehicles, as the heat can be dangerous.
Looking Ahead to Early Next Week
The dry, sunny conditions will continue into the start of the week. Monday and Tuesday are expected to remain hot, with daytime highs around 96°F and 98°F, respectively. While there’s a slight chance of rain late Sunday night into Monday night, these storms are not expected to significantly impact outdoor plans.
Five-Day El Paso Forecast (July 4–9)
Friday (Independence Day): Sunny, high near 94°F, breezy afternoon.
Saturday: Hot and sunny, high near 101°F, calm morning, breezy evening.
Sunday: Sunny and hot, high near 100°F, light winds.
Monday: Mostly sunny, high near 96°F, slight chance of evening storms.
Tuesday: Mostly sunny, high near 98°F, dry conditions.
Preparing for the Weekend
With a mix of thunderstorms and high heat on the horizon, El Paso residents and visitors should prepare for changes in weather, especially if planning outdoor activities. Stay updated with local weather alerts, limit exposure to the sun, and keep safety in mind while celebrating Independence Day.
