Upcoming Texas Cold Front: Key Details and Weather Impacts
As a powerful cold front advances through the Texas Panhandle today, residents across the state should prepare for significant weather shifts. This system will cascade through Texas tonight, bringing thunderstorms, strong winds from the north, rapidly decreasing temperatures, and the possibility of widespread freezing conditions by Sunday morning.
Severe Storm Possibilities This Afternoon and Evening
The Storm Prediction Center has issued a warning for the eastern portion of Texas, indicating a chance for isolated severe thunderstorms today. Although severe weather across the region is likely to remain isolated, certain storms could ramp up in intensity.
Possible Hazards Include:
- Nickel-to-quarter-size hail
- Localized wind gusts reaching 50–60 mph
- Heavy rainfall potentially causing street flooding
- The risk of brief, isolated tornadoes
Regions with heightened risk include the Brazos Valley, East Texas, Southeast Texas, the Coastal Plains, and the Golden Triangle. Staying alert for storm developments this afternoon and evening is advisable.
Cold Front Timing and Wind Hazards
The cold front is expected to move southward through the overnight hours. As it arrives, expect a quick temperature drop and significant wind increases. Wind gusts are anticipated to range from 35 to 45 mph across the northern three-quarters of Texas.
Residents should prepare for:
- Flying debris
- Challenging travel conditions for high-profile vehicles
- Displacement of holiday decorations and outdoor items
The front is projected to reach the Rio Grande Valley by late Sunday morning.
Sunday Morning Freeze and Hard Freeze Expected
By Sunday morning, Texas will experience some of the lowest temperatures seen this season.
Expected Lows Include:
- Panhandle & West Texas: 15–25°F
- Northwest Texas, Big Country, Concho Valley: 20s to near 30°F
- North Texas, Hill Country, Northeast Texas: 30–32°F
- Central Texas: Low–mid 30s
- Southeast Texas: 40s
- South Texas: 40s to near 50°F before dropping later in the day
A widespread freeze is expected across the northwestern section of the state, prompting protective measures for sensitive plants, outdoor plumbing, and pets.
Cold Air to Persist on Sunday and Monday
High temperatures on Sunday will remain decidedly below the seasonal average:
- 30s: Panhandle and far West Texas
- 40s: Northwest Texas, North Texas, Big Country
- 50s: Central and East Texas
- 50s–60s: Southeast Texas
- 70s: Far South Texas before the cold front moves in
Light rain may return Sunday night through Monday morning for eastern Texas, with intermittent flurries possible in the Texas Panhandle; however, serious winter weather impacts are not expected.
Gradual Warm-up Expected Next Week
Weather Outlook:
- Tuesday–Wednesday: Dry conditions statewide with increasing temperatures.
- Thursday: Potential for another cold front to pass through.
- Late Next Week: Looking forward to another rain opportunity along the Texas Gulf Coast and eastern Texas.
For comprehensive weather updates, stay tuned for more details as the weekend system progresses.
How to Stay Informed
To keep abreast of changing weather conditions, utilize the real-time tools available from Texas Storm Chasers:
- Live 24/7 Weather Stream: Available on Texas Storm Chasers’ website.
- Interactive Radar: Use the interactive radar here.
- Mobile App: Download the “Texas Storm Chasers” app for updates on the go.
- Website: Check for continuous updates at Texas Storm Chasers.
We are committed to providing updates throughout the weekend, which may include live coverage, especially if tornado warnings are issued. Stay safe and prepared as this weather system unfolds!
