Embracing the Houston Weather
The weather in Houston can be quite unpredictable and harsh at times, but there are still some things to love about it. Despite the taxing hurricane season and sweltering heat of the summers, there are some positives to focus on.
Over-the-Top Halloween Decorations
One of the things that makes Houston’s weather bearable is the creativity and enthusiasm of its residents, particularly when it comes to Halloween decorations. While the heat may still be lingering in October, Houstonians don’t let that stop them from going all out with their spooky displays. From giant skeletons to elaborate yard setups, the city comes alive with festive decorations. The 12-foot Home Depot skeleton, also known as "Skelly," has become a status symbol of sorts, with many residents trying to get their hands on one. Additionally, neighborhoods like Nightmare on Candy Cane Lane in Missouri City put on a spectacular show with animatronic figures, giant inflatables, and other creative displays.
Mild Winters
Another aspect of Houston’s weather that’s worth appreciating is its mild winters. With an average temperature of 58 degrees from November to February, the city’s winters are relatively pleasant. While some people may miss the traditional seasonal changes, the ability to walk around in a T-shirt in December is a definite perk. Of course, there are exceptions, like the 2021 freeze, which still has many residents on high alert whenever the temperature drops below 32°F.
The Joy of the First Cool Front
The arrival of the first cool front of the season is a special moment for Houston residents. After months of sweltering heat, the subtle caress of a cool breeze is a welcome relief. It’s a time to rejoice and make the most of the pleasant weather before the heat returns. As the poem below captures, it’s a feeling of excitement and liberation:
Bayou dwellers languish in summer’s inferno
Hoping, praying for the wind to so much as blow
Sticky with sweat from the merciless Houston sun
Teases come and go, yet relief is on the run
Until…what’s that? A sweet sensation thought long lost
The subtle caress of an old lover, star-crossed
A breeze! A crispness in the air! And a tire light
Greet us one morning as we eagerly take flight
A cool front, they say. By God we’ll take it, we say
The bayou dwellers smile wide and lay off their horn
Exultant, making plans, rid of the summer’s scorn
Gallivanting outside before the next beating
For, alas, we know too well this will be fleeting
Conclusion
While Houston’s weather may not be perfect, there are still things to love about it. From the creative Halloween decorations to the mild winters and the joy of the first cool front, there are moments to appreciate and enjoy. By focusing on these positives, residents can make the most of the city’s unique climate and find ways to thrive in the face of its challenges.
