Texans have been enjoying a stretch of unusually warm weather, with temperatures soaring well above normal for late February. Some cities even hit the low 80s, giving the Lone Star State a taste of early summer. But don’t let the sunshine fool you—a strong cold front is barreling in, and temperatures are set to drop fast. This dramatic weather shift will be felt statewide, with gusty winds, cloudy skies, and a noticeable temperature drop arriving by the end of the week. If you’ve been enjoying the sun, soak it up now—because things are about to change!
A False Taste of Summer Across Texas
For the past few days, Texas has been basking in warm, sunny weather, with temperatures far exceeding February norms.
- Houston hit 81°F (27°C) on February 26, making it feel more like late spring than winter.
- Dallas reached 80°F (26°C), with mostly sunny skies drawing people outdoors.
- Austin and San Antonio both soared to 82°F (28°C), making for near-record highs in some spots.
- Even El Paso, typically cooler this time of year, climbed to 80°F (26°C).
These temperatures are well above seasonal averages, which typically hover between 43°F (6°C) and 63°F (17°C) for February. But this heat won’t last. A cold front is already forming, and by Thursday, Texans will feel a sharp drop in temperatures.
Here’s When the Cold Arrives
While Thursday may still feel relatively mild, the first signs of the front’s arrival will be increasing clouds and a cooler breeze. By Friday and into the weekend, temperatures will dip significantly, and some areas may even struggle to reach the 50s.
- Thursday, February 27 – Houston drops to 71°F (22°C), Dallas to 70°F (21°C), and El Paso cools to 65°F (18°C).
- Friday, February 28 – The cooling trend continues, with many cities seeing highs in the low 70s or upper 60s.
- Saturday, March 1 – A noticeable shift arrives, with temperatures in the 50s and 60s, and gusty winds making it feel even colder.
By Sunday, March 2, Texans will wake up to morning temperatures in the 40s, a stark contrast from the 80-degree heat earlier in the week.
What Texans Need to Know
With such a drastic temperature swing, residents should prepare for changing conditions:
- DRESS IN LAYERS – Mornings and evenings will be chilly, even if the afternoons remain mild.
- WATCH FOR STRONG WINDS – Wind gusts will pick up with the front, making it feel colder than it is.
- PLAN FOR OUTDOOR CHANGES – If you have outdoor plans for the weekend, be ready for cooler temperatures and shifting conditions.
Texas has enjoyed a rare stretch of early summer warmth, but winter isn’t finished just yet. As this powerful cold front moves in, expect cooler temperatures, stronger winds, and a return to reality. If you’ve been loving the sunshine, get outside now—because by this weekend, Texas will feel very different!