MIDLAND, Texas – An urgent Freeze Warning is in effect from 3 a.m. to 9 a.m. CDT Thursday across much of West Texas, including the Permian Basin, Davis Mountains, Marfa Plateau, and the Van Horn Corridor, as temperatures are forecast to fall into the upper 20s to near 30 degrees. The National Weather Service in Midland/Odessa warns that the coldest air of the season so far could kill crops, damage outdoor plumbing, and harm sensitive vegetation across the region.
According to the National Weather Service, clear skies and light winds will allow rapid overnight cooling after midnight. Areas most at risk include Midland, Big Spring, Andrews, Seminole, Lamesa, Fort Davis, and Marfa, where cold air will settle into valleys and low spots before sunrise. Rural communities and higher elevations in the Davis Mountains could briefly dip below 28 degrees.
Residents are urged to wrap exposed pipes, cover or bring in plants, and ensure pets have warm, dry shelter overnight. Homeowners should also consider allowing indoor faucets to drip slowly to prevent burst pipes. The first widespread freeze of the season will likely end the growing season across the Permian Basin and Big Bend region.
According to the Texas Department of Transportation, patchy frost could develop on elevated surfaces, especially along I-20, U.S. 385, and Highway 54, leading to slick spots around daybreak. Motorists should drive cautiously and be alert for icy bridges during the early commute.
Temperatures will moderate slightly Thursday afternoon, but another cold surge could return this weekend, maintaining frost risks across West Texas into early next week.
