Austin, Texas – Central Texas is kicking off the new year with springlike warmth as temperatures surge well above normal across the region on New Year’s Day. Sunshine, light winds, and dry conditions are setting the stage for an unusually warm start to 2026, with even hotter weather expected Friday.
According to the National Weather Service Austin-San Antonio office, highs today will range from around 70 to the upper 70s across much of south central Texas. Austin, San Antonio, San Marcos, and New Braunfels are all expected to reach the low to mid 70s this afternoon, while areas farther west and south could push the upper 70s. South to southwest winds and thin high clouds will help maintain the warm trend.
Friday turns even warmer as temperatures climb several degrees higher. Many locations may approach or break daily record highs, with widespread mid to upper 70s and a few spots nearing 80 degrees. Winds increase slightly but remain manageable, and no rain is expected.
A weak cold front arrives late Friday, knocking temperatures back only slightly for Saturday. Even behind the front, highs remain well above seasonal averages, keeping daytime temperatures solidly in the 70s across most of the region. Dry weather continues through the weekend and into early next week.
Overnight lows remain mild, generally in the 40s and 50s, limiting any cold-weather concerns. With no precipitation in the forecast, road and travel conditions remain favorable throughout the New Year’s weekend.
Residents are encouraged to stay hydrated and dress in layers, as mornings will be cooler than afternoons. The extended stretch of dry, warm weather is expected to persist into next week, though forecast confidence decreases beyond the weekend.
This pattern delivers a calm and warm start to 2026 for Austin, San Antonio, and surrounding communities, with no weather advisories in effect and little change expected through the holiday weekend.
