A significant cold front is expected to impact Austin and Central Texas this weekend, bringing the coldest air of the season. This weather shift comes after an unusually warm and dry winter, which has seen Austin record minimal freezing temperatures thus far.
Austin’s Uncommonly Warm Winter
Since the meteorological winter began on December 1, Austin has experienced only one day with freezing temperatures at Camp Mabry. Austin-Bergstrom International Airport noted four days at or below 32 degrees, the last occurring on Thursday morning. Remarkably, winter’s average daily temperature so far has been recorded at 59.4 degrees, ranking it among the warmest winters on record.
During the first nine days of January, temperatures soared into the 70s and 80s, peaking at 88 degrees on January 2. This stark warmth has raised expectations for upcoming winter conditions.
Upcoming Weather Timeline
Forecasts predict a blustery cold front will arrive on Friday. Initially, the weather will feature clear skies and mild afternoon temperatures ranging from 67 to 75 degrees, about 15 degrees above normal for this time of year.
- Cooling Period: Expect temperatures to drop significantly by late Friday afternoon.
- Wind Speeds: Northerly winds will reach around 20 mph.
- Evening Temperatures: Falling into the upper 30s to lower 40s overnight.
Cold Front Effects
By Saturday morning, the cold air will settle in, leading to morning lows between the mid-20s and low 30s. This cold snap is likely to bring about widespread freezing, making the anticipated temperatures particularly concerning for local events, such as the Spurs Austin Half Marathon.
The National Weather Service anticipates areas experiencing a light freeze, generally recording temperatures at or above 28 degrees. Isolated spots in the Hill Country may see lows in the teens.
Safety Precautions
In preparation for the cold, residents are urged to protect the three P’s: people, pets, and plants. Fortunately, pipes are expected to remain intact during this brief cold spell, with temperatures expected to rise above freezing by 9 a.m. on Sunday. The day will gradually warm to the 50s by early afternoon and reach around 60 degrees later in the day.
Following this cold snap, the upcoming week is predicted to bring warmer and more seasonably mild weather, with potential rain returning by midweek, adding to the dynamic weather patterns in Central Texas.
