Texas – Cold air feels almost gentle right now, but it’s deceptive. Damp pavement glistens under early light, and a steady breeze hints at what’s building just north of Texas. By the weekend, south central Texas will feel a sharp and dangerous shift as Arctic air pours in fast.
An Extreme Cold Watch is in effect from Saturday evening through Monday morning for all of south central Texas, including Austin and San Antonio. The National Weather Service warns wind chills could drop as low as 2 degrees below zero, a rare and dangerous setup for the region.
Before the cold locks in, rain moves through Friday into Saturday. Showers increase Friday night, then linger into Saturday morning. As colder air rushes south, rain may briefly mix with freezing rain late Saturday night, especially on elevated roads and bridges. Even light icing could create sudden travel problems along I-35 and surrounding highways.
Temperatures fall sharply Saturday night. By Sunday morning, many areas wake to freezing conditions, gusty north winds, and biting air that stings exposed skin. Pipes, plants, and pets face real risk. Livestock protection becomes critical, and unprotected plumbing may suffer damage.
Sunday stays cold despite some sunshine. Winds remain brisk, keeping wind chills well below actual temperatures. Conditions improve slowly late Sunday into Monday, but the cold threat does not fully ease until after sunrise Monday.
Looking ahead, national outlooks show precipitation chances rising again next week across parts of Texas as the broader cold pattern shifts east. For now, preparation matters. Insulate pipes, bring pets indoors, and plan travel carefully if heading out late Saturday or early Sunday.
Five-Day Outlook for Austin–San Antonio, Texas
- Today: Mostly cloudy, mild, highs near 74°
- Friday: Showers possible, highs near 71°
- Saturday: Rain, then colder late, highs near 51°
- Sunday: Much colder, breezy, highs near 36°
- Monday: Sunny but cold, highs near 44°
