Cold polar air is now flowing south into Texas, according to forecast guidance and computer models. The change’s timing is set for January 6. Monday morning will see the arrival of the first cold air storm, which will cause daytime highs to plunge into the 50s. Area-wide temperatures will finally drop into the 40s and 30s by Tuesday. Above all, it will entail multiple nights at or below freezing, particularly in the Hill Country.
According to NWS predictions, Austin has a 65% chance of freezing temperatures by Tuesday and a 75% chance by Wednesday. There is an even greater chance of temperatures falling below 32°F in Fredericksburg—up to 80%. Precipitation prospects are still low, with regional estimates ranging from 10% to 25%.
The NWS warns against overreacting to online extreme weather models. Officials said it’s too early to say whether winter precipitation will fall. They advise being ready for any chilly weather and keeping an eye on official developments.
Looking forward
The National Weather Service advises delaying outdoor activities until this weekend if you want to engage in them because of the predicted improvement in temperature. Additionally, residents are encouraged to maintain their plants and pipes throughout the colder months.
During the cold front, the NWS advises Bexar County residents and visitors to stay indoors as much as possible. It is predicted to remain frigid through the middle of January.
As of right now, Wednesday through Friday could have mornings that are almost freezing and afternoon highs that are probably below 40°. Although San Antonio is not predicted to experience prolonged below-freezing temperatures, residents of the Hill Country who have exposed pipes should be ready to take the appropriate safety measures just in case.
However, the huge wild card is a slim probability of wintry precipitation between January 8 and 9. Those predictions are not accurate at this point in time, and that is only if certain circumstances align perfectly. Sunday night, and especially early next week, will give us a much better picture of the likelihood of snowy weather.
