Brownsville, Texas – A sharp overnight temperature drop could bring freezing conditions to parts of Deep South Texas late Saturday night, raising concerns for agriculture and exposed outdoor plumbing across inland counties near the Rio Grande.
According to the National Weather Service in Brownsville, a Freeze Watch is in effect from late Saturday night through Sunday morning for Zapata, Jim Hogg, Brooks, and inland Kenedy counties. Overnight lows could fall to around 29 degrees, with the coldest temperatures expected just before sunrise Sunday.
Communities including Zapata, Hebbronville, Falfurrias, and Sarita are most likely to see freezing conditions for several hours. While coastal areas remain milder, inland locations across the Rio Grande Plains are more vulnerable to frost and freeze development due to clear skies and light winds overnight.
Cold-sensitive crops and vegetation are at risk, particularly in agricultural areas where recent mild weather may have left plants unprotected. Uninsulated outdoor pipes could also sustain damage if temperatures dip below freezing long enough.
Residents are urged to finish covering plants, protect exposed plumbing, and bring pets indoors before temperatures fall. Those with livestock should ensure access to shelter and unfrozen water sources.
The Freeze Watch remains in effect through Sunday morning, and the National Weather Service notes it could be upgraded to a Freeze Warning if confidence increases. Additional cold weather alerts may be issued as conditions evolve overnight.
