opinion
High Pressure Saves Austin from the Unthinkable: Moisture
Central Texas gets a break from the rain, but the humidity is still here to ruin your hair and your mood.

By Riley Monroe
Published July 16, 2025 at 7:51pm

Oh joy, the high-pressure system is finally here to save us from the absolute horror of rain in Texas. Because nothing says "summer" like the ground being so dry it cracks open like my last relationship. But don’t get too excited—this isn’t the kind of high pressure that turns Austin into a convection oven (yet). No, no, we’re getting the luxury version where the sun’s energy is too busy evaporating all that pesky water to properly roast us alive. How considerate.\n\nAnd let’s talk about these Highland Lakes, shall we? Lake Buchanan is now 100% full, which is great news for anyone who’s been dying to see what a proper lake looks like after years of staring at what was essentially a sad puddle. Lake Travis, meanwhile, is 87% full—so close, yet so far. It’s like when you’re at a party and the host says, “We’re almost out of guac,” but you still scrape the bowl because hope is a dangerous thing.\n\nOf course, the humidity is still hanging around like that one friend who doesn’t know when to leave. Sure, the temps are only in the lower 90s, but with the moisture in the air, it’ll feel like you’re walking through a sauna someone forgot to turn off. And let’s not forget the tropical low-pressure system lurking in the Gulf, because what’s a Texas summer without the constant threat of a weather system named after someone’s ex?\n\nFinally, a fun history lesson: Did you know the Guadalupe River flooded the exact same way in 1987? Because apparently, nature loves a good rerun. Ten teenagers tragically lost their lives in that flood, which is a grim reminder that Texas weather doesn’t care about your plans—or your hair. So enjoy the break from the rain, Austin. Just don’t put away your umbrella yet. The universe loves a punchline.\n\nRiley Monroe is still waiting for a weather system that vibes with her aesthetic.