Austin Braces for First Freeze of the Season Amid Prolonged Cold Front

Starting Sunday, January 5, a strong cold front is poised to cause a major change in central Texas weather. Forecasters predict the coldest and most persistent frost since last winter, with highs maybe falling into the 40s and lows, bringing Austin's Camp Mabry the first freeze of the season.

Temperatures will progressively rise from the 60s to the low 70s by Sunday in the days before this Arctic blast. But the advent of the cold front is predicted to reverse this trend, plunging highs into the 50s on Monday and possibly into the 40s later in the week. Austin's first freeze since February 2023 could come from overnight lows falling below freezing.

With regard to hazardous, below-average temperatures, the experimental risk tool of the Climate Prediction Center rates Central Texas as "slight to moderate." This fits the larger picture, which forecasts, especially in the southeast states, colder-than-normal conditions over most of the United States.

Although low temperatures are the main issue, certain long-term computer models—like the American (GFS) and European (ECMWF) models—suggest a possibility of wintry precipitation accompanying the cold. Meteorologists warn, meantime, that these forecasts may change as the event draws near.

Usually occurring around December 1, Austin's first freeze is noteworthy for this year's late-season freeze. Residents are advised to get ready for the protracted cold and track updates for any effects.

Watch this space for more updates as weather models keep improving forecasts for this significant temperature drop.

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