The region may experience much-needed rainfall this week, as forecasted by the National Weather Service (NWS).
According to the NWS in Midland, despite a cool front passing through, temperatures are expected to remain above normal today. However, an upper-level weather system later in the week could bring rain and thunderstorms, with the highest chances from Big Bend to the southeastern Permian Basin. "We are closely monitoring our next weather system, which is expected to arrive later next week. This may finally bring an end to our prolonged dry spell. Stay tuned for details," the organization wrote on X.
A detailed forecast from the NWS indicates that Sunday will see a high of 78 degrees Fahrenheit with wind gusts up to 15 mph and a low of 49. Monday's weather is predicted to be clear, with temperatures reaching a high near 83 and a low of 56. On Tuesday, conditions are expected to be sunny, with a high near 89 and a low of 62. Wednesday will have an anticipated high of 84 with a 20 percent chance of showers after 1 p.m., and a low of 72. Thursday's forecast includes a chance of showers after 1 p.m., with highs near 72 and lows at 57. Highs around 83 are anticipated on Friday, with lows reaching near 59.
Rain would be beneficial as Midland County continues to endure drought conditions. The latest report by the U.S. Drought Monitor shows that Midland County is facing significant drought challenges.
According to the report, all of Midland County is experiencing moderate drought conditions affecting approximately 136,872 people, with about 75 percent in severe drought and 25 percent in moderate drought. Other categories include extreme and exceptional drought levels. Aside from East Texas, over 62 percent of Texas is experiencing some form of drought. February was recorded as the driest month in the past 131 years for this area, being about 0.65 inches below normal precipitation levels. The year started as the tenth driest on record, with precipitation falling short by about 1.1 inches.