Dallas, TX – Texas is heading into a warm, calm, and mostly dry weather pattern from December 18–24, with NOAA’s long-range outlook showing above-normal temperatures and below-normal precipitation statewide. This setup creates ideal holiday travel conditions for much of the state, with little threat of winter hazards as Christmas Eve approaches.
According to NOAA, North Texas—including Dallas, Fort Worth, Denton, Wichita Falls, and Sherman—will experience afternoon highs in the mid-60s to low-70s, running 10 to 15 degrees above normal. A weak disturbance may bring brief drizzle to the Red River counties on December 19–20, but widespread rainfall is unlikely.
In Central Texas—including Austin, Waco, Temple, and College Station—mild and mostly sunny conditions dominate. Patchy morning fog may form along the I-35 corridor but should lift by mid-morning. No significant rain or storms are expected.
East Texas—including Tyler, Longview, Lufkin, and Nacogdoches—remains warm, with highs in the upper 60s to mid-70s. Humidity increases at times, but the below-normal precipitation trend keeps showers limited and short-lived.
South Texas—including San Antonio, Corpus Christi, Victoria, Laredo, and the Rio Grande Valley—will be among the warmest regions in the country, with highs in the low to mid-70s, and a few areas approaching 80°F. Conditions stay dry and breezy, with ideal travel weather throughout the week.
West Texas—including Midland, Odessa, Lubbock, Abilene, and El Paso—will see cooler nights but warm afternoons due to the above-normal temperature pattern. Only isolated sprinkles are possible in far West Texas.
Across major routes—including I-10, I-20, I-35, I-45, and U.S. 281—travelers should expect smooth driving, mild temperatures, and minimal weather delays through Christmas Eve.
