After a brief period of milder weather, a sharp cold front is forecast to sweep through the southern United States this weekend, bringing another round of freezing temperatures. This sudden drop in temperature raises concerns over frozen pipes, the safety of pets, and increased power demand in affected areas.
The Weather Pattern: A Brief Warmup Before the Cold
A high-pressure system has settled over Texas and the central states, allowing a slight warm-up after the recent freeze. Cities like Bryan and College Station saw temperatures rise above freezing for the first time since last week, marking the warmest days in a while.
However, this relief will be short-lived. As the high-pressure system moves east, it will draw in milder air from the Gulf of Mexico. Unfortunately, the relief won’t last, as a new Arctic front is expected to move in late this week, arriving from Thursday night into Friday and advancing across Texas and the southern Plains, before pushing farther east and south throughout the weekend.
The Impact of the Coming Arctic Front
The upcoming Arctic blast will be colder and drier than the previous one, bringing strong winds and little to no precipitation. This means residents will experience a brief warm spell followed by a swift return to harsh winter conditions. While clouds may increase ahead of the front, brief showers are possible on Thursday and early Friday, mainly near the front’s boundary. After the front passes, skies will clear, but temperatures will drop significantly.
Timing of the Arctic Blast
While the timing may vary by location, the general pattern for the region looks as follows:
- Wednesday–Thursday: Gradual warmup with light winds, chilly mornings and cool afternoons.
- Thursday night–Friday: Arctic front arrives, winds shift to the north, and temperatures begin to drop.
- Saturday: Cold, breezy day with sunshine but wind chills making it feel like winter.
- Saturday night–Sunday morning: Another hard freeze, particularly in inland areas and away from urban centers.
- Early next week: Slow return to more typical late-winter temperatures.
Local weather stations have already issued a “First Alert Weather Day” for Saturday in parts of Texas, indicating that cold temperatures will have a significant impact, even without snow or ice. Outdoor activities will feel much colder than expected due to freezing temperatures combined with brisk north winds.
How Cold Will It Get?
Exact temperatures will vary depending on the location, but expect widespread freezing conditions, with some areas seeing temperatures drop well below freezing for several hours. The combination of freezing temperatures and gusty winds will make outdoor conditions feel even colder.
What Residents Should Do Before the Cold Arrives
Protecting Pipes and Property
Residents should take precautions to protect pipes and homes from the coming freeze. Forecasters recommend allowing indoor faucets to drip on the coldest nights to prevent pipes from freezing. This is particularly important in older homes, mobile homes, or houses with plumbing in unheated spaces.
- Open cabinet doors under sinks to allow warm air to circulate around pipes.
- Insulate exposed outdoor pipes and cover taps with foam or plastic covers.
- Turn off and drain sprinkler systems to prevent burst lines and icy patches.
- Check that space heaters are working properly and keep them away from flammable materials.
- Move potted plants indoors or into garages, and cover delicate landscaping with frost cloth or sheets on the coldest nights.
Looking After People and Pets
People working outdoors, such as construction workers or delivery drivers, will need to layer up for protection against the biting wind. Local authorities stress checking on elderly neighbors, especially those who live alone or rely on electric heaters for warmth.
Pets and livestock should also be protected from the cold. Dogs and cats should not be left outside overnight, and farm animals’ water troughs can freeze quickly in these conditions. Windbreaks, dry bedding, and unfrozen water are essential for their survival.
What to Expect After the Arctic Blast
After the Arctic air moves out, temperatures are expected to slowly recover toward seasonal averages. Highs will climb, and nights will be less harsh, though still cold.
Forecast models are already indicating the next potential weather system, about seven to nine days out. This system looks to bring more typical rain without the intense Arctic conditions. While it could provide much-needed moisture, it won’t come with the added threat of ice or snow.
Common Weather Terms Explained
- Arctic Front: A sharp boundary between very cold and milder air, causing a rapid drop in temperatures.
- Wind Chill: The perceived temperature felt on exposed skin, which is colder than the actual temperature due to wind.
- Hard Freeze: A freeze severe enough to damage exposed pipes, plants, and infrastructure, usually lasting for several hours below freezing.
Saturday Forecast: Cold and Breezy
On Saturday, expect clear skies and sunshine, but the cold air will make it feel much colder than the actual temperature. With wind chills in effect, temperatures will feel closer to the lower 20s Fahrenheit. This cold air will be a stark contrast to the otherwise pleasant, sunny conditions, making it crucial to dress warmly if you’re planning to be outside for any length of time.
For those heading to road trips, outdoor markets, or sporting events, be prepared for the dry, yet bitterly cold conditions. While roads should remain dry, standing outside will be uncomfortable without proper clothing. It’s best to plan for a cold but dry weekend, with a more mild and wet pattern expected next week.
