Strong Cold Front to Bring 55 MPH Wind Gusts Across Oklahoma and Texas This Weekend

OKLAHOMA — A powerful cold front is sweeping through the Southern Plains this weekend, bringing strong gusty winds and the coldest air of the season across Kansas, Oklahoma, and Texas. Forecasters warn that winds could reach up to 55 mph in parts of Oklahoma and Kansas, with gusts near 45 mph in northern Texas as the front pushes southeast.

According to the National Weather Service (NWS) and high-resolution weather models, these strong winds will accompany the arrival of the Arctic air mass late Friday into early Saturday, making travel difficult and raising concerns for power outages, blowing dust, and hazardous driving conditions.

Wind Gusts Up to 55 MPH Expected Across the Plains

Forecast data from the NOAA HRRR model shows wind speeds increasing rapidly as the cold front advances across the region. The strongest gusts are expected in central and northern Oklahoma, where readings could reach 50–55 mph, while northern Texas may see gusts closer to 40–45 mph.

The sharp temperature drop behind the front will create a surge of cold, dry air extending into central Texas by Saturday morning. Forecasters say this will likely mark the coldest air mass of the season so far, with temperatures plunging across the Southern Plains.

“This front is not only bringing strong winds but also a significant temperature drop,” meteorologists said Friday. “Residents should secure outdoor items and prepare for potentially dangerous wind chills once the front passes.”

Isolated Storms Possible Along the Front

As the cold front moves into central and southeast Texas, it will encounter higher moisture levels from the Gulf of Mexico. This interaction could lead to isolated strong to severe thunderstorms, particularly on Saturday afternoon and evening.

Meteorologists warn that these storms may bring damaging wind gusts, small hail, and frequent lightning, with a minimal but present tornado threat near the Houston area and into western Louisiana.

Drivers are advised to use caution during storm development, as sudden wind gusts and heavy rain could reduce visibility and make travel hazardous.

Regional Wind Forecast

• Kansas: Gusts up to 55 mph, with blowing dust possible in open fields.
• Oklahoma: Sustained winds of 25–35 mph, gusting up to 50–55 mph.
• North Texas: Winds of 20–30 mph, gusting to 40–45 mph; temperatures dropping rapidly after frontal passage.
• Central Texas: Winds around 35 mph by Saturday morning as cold air moves southward.

Residents are encouraged to secure holiday decorations, outdoor furniture, and garbage bins that could be blown away or damaged by high winds. Lightweight vehicles, including trucks and trailers, should also take extra caution on highways due to crosswinds.

Coldest Air of the Season to Follow

Behind the cold front, temperatures will tumble into the 30s and 40s across Oklahoma and northern Texas by early Saturday, with wind chills dropping into the 20s in some areas. The chill will extend into central Texas overnight, making for a cold and breezy start to the weekend.

Meteorologists expect the cold air to remain in place through Sunday morning before gradual warming begins early next week.

Safety and Preparation Tips

Authorities urge residents to prepare for the combination of wind and cold by:

• Avoiding outdoor burning, as dry air and gusty winds increase fire danger.
• Checking heating systems and ensuring carbon monoxide detectors are functional.
• Bringing pets indoors and providing extra warmth for livestock.
• Securing loose objects outdoors to prevent property damage or debris hazards.

The National Weather Service continues to monitor the situation and may issue wind advisories or high wind warnings for affected areas as the front strengthens overnight.

Stay connected with NapervilleLocal.com for updates on wind advisories, storm developments, and post-front temperature changes across Oklahoma and Texas this weekend.