Texas and Midwest States Prepare for Arctic Blast Bringing Hard Freeze and Bitter Cold Next Weekend
TEXAS — A major temperature swing is on the way as an Arctic air mass prepares to surge across the Midwest and southern United States, delivering the coldest conditions of the season so far. Forecasters say Texas, along with portions of the Midwest and Tennessee Valley, will experience a dramatic drop in temperatures heading into next weekend, bringing hard freezes and biting north winds.
According to the latest models, this cold wave will be part of a broad Arctic blast sweeping down from Canada late Thursday into Friday. While the core of the cold will impact the Midwest and Great Plains, Texas is still expected to feel the sting of this front — even with just a glancing blow.
Sharp Temperature Drops Expected
Early in the week, temperatures in North and Central Texas will climb back into the 60s and 70s, with Thursday being the warmest day and highs possibly touching 80°F in Central Texas. But late Thursday night, conditions will change rapidly as the Arctic front pushes southward.
By Friday, highs will remain stuck in the 40s throughout much of the state, accompanied by strong north winds that will make it feel even colder. The front will usher in clear skies but bitterly cold air, with Friday night lows plunging into the low to mid-20s, signaling the start of a hard freeze.
Hard Freeze and Weekend Chill
Residents across Texas and nearby Midwest states are urged to prepare for a hard freeze Friday night into Saturday, especially in areas where temperatures rarely dip below freezing for extended periods. Homeowners are advised to protect outdoor pipes, plants, and pets, as multiple freezing nights are expected.
Saturday could stay in the 30s all day, with brisk north winds and another freeze likely Saturday night. By Sunday, much of the region will remain in the 40s, marking one of the coldest weekends of the winter so far.
Cold Air Stretching Into Multiple Regions
This Arctic air mass will cover a large portion of the country, affecting areas from the Great Lakes and Tennessee Valley down into the southern Plains. The Midwest will see highs staying well below freezing, while southern states like Texas will experience unusually cold air for mid-December.
Meteorologists say that while the event will not bring significant snow or precipitation to Texas, the cold air and strong winds will still create dangerous wind chills and potential frost damage in exposed areas. Residents should brace for a sharp reminder that winter has truly arrived.
For ongoing winter weather coverage and forecast updates, follow the latest regional developments right here on NapervilleLocal.com.
I’ve lived in Naperville long enough to see how quickly our community changes — from new developments downtown to sudden shifts in our Midwest weather. Reporting on Naperville news and daily forecasts gives me the chance to keep neighbors informed about what really matters. My goal is simple: deliver clear, timely updates so you always know what’s happening in our city and what to expect from the skies above.