The city of Houston will officially welcome the fall season on Monday, Sept. 22, when the autumnal equinox occurs at 1:19 p.m. This astronomical event marks the precise moment when the Sun’s direct rays shine over the equator. The equinox signifies the start of fall in the Northern Hemisphere and spring in the Southern Hemisphere.
Houston residents, while aware of the arrival of fall, may not experience the typical drop in temperatures associated with the season. The city’s weather patterns remain influenced by various factors, including Gulf water temperatures, wind direction, humidity, and high-pressure systems. The Sun’s position, while affecting the length of day and night, is not the primary driver of daily weather changes during this time of year.
The term “equinox” originates from Latin, meaning “equal night.” However, on this day, Houston will not experience a perfect balance of 12 hours of daylight and 12 hours of darkness. Sunrise is expected at 7:10 a.m., and sunset at 7:17 p.m. Despite this, the city will come close to an equal distribution of daylight and darkness.
A notable phenomenon during the equinox is that the Sun rises exactly due east and sets due west. This alignment provides an additional 2 to 3 minutes of daylight, as the Sun appears above the horizon when it is technically just below it, due to atmospheric light bending.
Following the equinox, the equilux, when daylight and darkness are almost equal, will occur in Houston on Friday, September 26. The Sun will remain above the horizon for 12 hours, 0 minutes, and 22 seconds on this day.
Houston has experienced high temperatures in the mid-90s since September 10, and no significant cold front has yet arrived to bring cooler weather. The city awaits a major weather pattern shift before experiencing a true fall cool down. According to forecasts, Houston typically experiences its first substantial cold front in October, though it can vary, sometimes arriving as early as September or as late as November.
As winter approaches, the Sun’s rays start to play a more integral role in temperature changes. In the meantime, a temporary cool front is expected to pass through Houston. This will bring temporary relief, despite not resulting in a significant drop in temperatures or a lengthy escape from humidity.
Houston’s residents continue to adapt to the unique seasonal patterns of the region, enjoying seasonal favorites like pumpkin spice lattes, despite the warm weather. The city’s climate remains distinct, with the fall season offering a blend of warm days and occasional cool fronts.