Residents across Texas are bracing for significant weather changes as the state transitions from unusually warm temperatures to colder conditions, aided by incoming cold fronts and potential storms. The National Weather Service (NWS) is monitoring these developments closely, as weather patterns indicate several fluctuations throughout the weekend and the start of the new year.
On December 28, 2024, southerly winds are expected to bring moisture back to South Texas, resulting in increased humidity and dense fog, particularly along and east of Interstate 35. Temperatures are set to rise, possibly reaching 80 degrees Fahrenheit, nearly 20 degrees above the seasonal average of 63 degrees for this time of year. With overcast skies dominating Saturday morning, the visibility may dip to just a quarter-mile due to thick fog, prompting advisories from local weather authorities. “Visibility could make driving conditions hazardous,” NWS advised, underscoring the need for caution. Drivers are urged to slow down and utilize low-beam headlights for safety.
With the weekend forecast highlighting damp weather on Saturday, meteorologists predict the skies will clear by later morning, leading to warmer, sunnier afternoons across Central Texas. The influx of humidity is expected to shift as gusty west winds pick up by noon, moving through San Antonio and the surrounding areas. Plans for travel this weekend should account for fluctuated visibility until the fog dissipates.
Moving forward, the forecast suggests temperatures will increase to nearly record-breaking averages across various Texas regions, with cities like San Antonio, Del Rio, and Austin all within reach of historical highs set decades ago. The impending arrival of New Year’s will also mark the approach of a dry, Canadian cold front, anticipated Monday night, January 1, 2025.
The latter portion of the weekend will see temperatures dropping from the 80s to the 40s as cold fronts sweep through on New Year’s Eve. Reports indicate highs falling to about 60 degrees and lows dipping to near freezing during the early days of January. Precipitation levels will remain low, with only trace amounts of rainfall expected, primarily through scattered showers and even some thunderstorms moving across North Texas at the weekend’s outset.
Severe weather watches are currently active, especially across the southeast, where storm threats are heightened due to incoming atmospheric disturbances. Hail reaching up to two inches is anticipated as storm systems move across Central Texas, with severe thunderstorm warnings impacting major highways.
Looking at Texas’s weather patterns leading up to the New Year, residents should prepare for what meteorologists are calling one of the warmest seasonal transitions on record, involving elements of hazy skies and increased humidity now followed closely by the tail end of winter temperatures. The adjustments may prove jarring, transitioning quickly from warm afternoons to chilly evenings. “It’s important to stay informed on changing weather conditions, as variability will be the key theme heading through New Year’s,” shared meteorologist Adaleigh Rowe.
Forecast highlights indicate the winter weather is set for significant changes, with afternoon highs on Saturday tipping near 83 degrees, taking many by surprise as the year wraps up. Weather enthusiasts and residents alike are advised to keep their alert systems active to remain updated on developing forecasts and advisories.
With temperatures poised to reach high marks rarely seen during the winter months yet again, and the risk of severe storms looming, it remains important for Texans to remain cognizant of safety protocols during highway travel and weather changes. “When driving, prepare for lower visibility and and adjust accordingly, utilizing fog lights where necessary,” advised the NWS.
While the warm conditions can provide some comfort as the year enters its closing moments, the forecasted shift on the horizon indicates the necessity for winter preparations as the cold front draws closer.
