RECORD HEAT: Sunday May Be the Hottest Day Ever in Lufkin, Texas

Records We Don't Want to Break

It looks like the East Texas Summer of 2023 will go down as the hottest in our history. As of last week, Lufkin's average temperature since the start of summer was nearly three-quarters of a degree hotter than our record-setting Summer of 2011. Unless a drastic cold snap happens sometime in September, this summer will go down as our hottest since records were kept in 1906.

This Sunday, August 20, another dubious record could be either tied or broken. On August 19, 1909, and then again on September 4, 2000, the temperature in Lufkin reached 110 degrees. That marks the all-time high for Lufkin.

The National Weather Service in Shreveport is predicting a high of 109 degrees in Lufkin on Sunday. I've taken a look at some of the temperature predictions from different computer models, and when it comes to the maximum temperature for this Sunday, they range anywhere from 108-112.

Angelina County Airport

This is the location of the official weather reporting station for the Lufkin area. I have no doubt that there will be quite a few areas in Deep East Texas that will go 110 or better on Sunday, but the temperature gauge at the airport is where the official measurement will be recorded. Of course, you'll also find some of the hamburgers in East Texas there as well.

So far in 2023, our hottest temperature has been 107 which was hit on Thursday, August 17. There's a good chance we could match that with today's (8/18) maximum.

When Do We Catch a Break?

Anyone who has endured East Texas summers knows that the oppressive heat can last deep into September. Unfortunately, the long-range forecast gives us good odds of that being the case for 2023.

There is a slight chance of rain on Tuesday thanks to a tropical system moving through the Gulf of Mexico. As of now, however, most models are taking the brunt of the associated rainfall well to our south.

On Sunday, August 27, several weather models are in agreement that Deep East Texas should get a one-day break from the heat with some widespread rainfall. Keep in mind, confidence is low on any forecast that's more than a week out.

Pray, Pray, Pray

There are two actions to take during this unprecedented heat wave. Number one is to daily have a conversation with our dear Lord and ask Him for some timely relief from the heat and drought.

Second, listen to and observe the safety measures which we are being asked by first responders and forest service personnel. Properly dispose of your cigarettes, make sure that you don't have chains dragging the ground when towing a trailer, don't park your vehicle over grassy areas, try your best to mow during the early morning hours, and keep in mind that outdoor burning is forbidden.