Corpus Christi, Texas – January 2026 was significantly drier than normal across South Texas, with near-normal temperatures overall but notable cold snaps and isolated ice events, according to the National Weather Service.
The National Weather Service Corpus Christi reports that precipitation across much of South Texas ranked among the driest Januarys on record. Corpus Christi recorded just 0.16 inches of rain, ranking as the 10th driest January, while Victoria measured 0.78 inches, also well below normal. Laredo reported only 0.06 inches, placing it among the driest Januarys historically.
Temperatures across the region averaged close to normal, though sharp cold events occurred late in the month. Victoria reached a low of 18 degrees on January 27, marking one of the coldest readings of the winter season. Corpus Christi dropped to 24 degrees on January 26, while Laredo recorded lows near 27 degrees.
Despite the generally dry conditions, light ice accumulation was observed during the late-January cold snap. The Corpus Christi International Airport measured 0.03 inches of ice on January 24, while Victoria recorded 0.06 inches of ice between January 24 and 25. Laredo did not record any ice accumulation.
High temperatures reached the upper 80s to low 90s at times, including a 91-degree reading in Laredo on January 2, highlighting the large temperature swings experienced during the month.
Travel corridors including Interstate 37 near Corpus Christi, US-77 near Victoria, and Interstate 35 in Laredo experienced impacts tied to cold mornings and dry conditions, though no prolonged closures were reported.
The National Weather Service notes that January 2026 serves as a reminder that South Texas winters can include both extreme dryness and brief but impactful cold events.
Residents are encouraged to review monthly climate summaries to better understand long-term trends and seasonal variability across the region.
