News Summary
San Antonio is bracing for a cold spell as forecasts suggest below-average temperatures from February 17 to February 21. Residents are urged to prepare for potential freezing conditions amidst a rollercoaster weather pattern this winter. With multiple cold fronts expected, the likelihood of frost increases, especially early next week. Local gardening enthusiasts and homeowners are advised to take precautions to protect their plants and plumbing. Despite the chill, warmer trends may return in March, creating some hope for a milder spring.
San Antonio Gears Up for Winter Freeze: What You Need to Know
San Antonio, are you ready for a chilly week ahead? Recent forecasts from the National Weather Service’s Climate Prediction Center are hinting at below-average temperatures across Texas from February 17 to February 21. With the potential for a freeze looming, it’s time for everyone in the Alamo city to prepare.
A Rollercoaster Winter
This winter has been quite a ride for South Texas, filled with ups and downs. December was warm and cozy, January brought about a chill that had us reaching for our jackets, and then early February surprised us all with record-high temperatures. So far this winter, San Antonio residents have experienced 11 days with temperatures dipping below 32 degrees. That’s a bit shy of the average annual freeze count of 14 days, but with the forecast coming up, things might just change.
A Glimpse into the Freeze History
Did you know San Antonio has been keeping track of its freeze history since 1885? It’s true! The most recent notable freeze was way back on April 3, 1987, when temperatures plummeted to 31 degrees. Traditionally, most of the last freezes—around 90%—occur during February or March. For those curious, the average date for San Antonio’s last winter freeze is February 24. For comparison, Houston usually sees its last freeze on February 15, while Dallas-Fort Worth waits until mid-March, around the 11th.
What’s Coming Up?
The chilly weather is on its way, starting with the first of three **expected cold fronts** arriving on Wednesday night. By Thursday morning, it’s anticipated that temperatures will dip into the upper 30s. However, don’t bet on a freeze just yet for the metro area. The second cold front will roll into South Texas by Saturday evening, and the pre-dawn hours of next Monday might have us scraping our windshields as temperatures dwell near the freezing mark.
Potential Freeze Ahead
Next Monday could bring some excitement (or anxiety) as the forecast suggests temperatures hovering between 32 and 35 degrees. That might just be enough for San Antonio to face its chances of a freeze. But hold on, there’s more! The third cold front is lurking around February 19-21, and it’s during this time that we might see the highest likelihood of experiencing freezing temperatures.
What Should You Do?
Whether you’re a gardening enthusiast, planning outdoor activities, or just want to keep your pipes safe, there are a few things to consider. With the potential for frost, it’s a good idea to wrap up any uncovered pipes and maybe even bring your potted plants indoors for protection against the cold.
A Bit of Hope
Don’t despair just yet! Long-range weather models are hinting that as we step into March, temperatures could swing back upwards, possibly reaching above average. That might just ease our worries about further freezes later in the month. Meanwhile, the Farmers’ Almanac suggests that we could be experiencing below-normal temperatures extending through April, so let’s not put those winter coats away just yet!
Final Thoughts
With weather patterns behaving unexpectedly this winter, it’s crucial for San Antonio residents to stay informed and prepared. Enjoy the upcoming brisk weather, but also take those necessary precautions to ensure you and your home are ready for what’s to come. Here’s to hoping for cozy nights and sunny days ahead!
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Additional Resources
- Statesman: Last Freeze in Texas
- Wikipedia: Winter Storm
- News 4 San Antonio: Arctic Cold and Wintry Mix
- Google Search: Texas Winter Forecast 2025
- Express News: Freeze Rain & Sleet
- Google Scholar: Texas Weather 2025
- KENS5: Arctic Blast in San Antonio
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Cold Weather Texas
- Express News: Valentine’s Day Weather
- Google News: San Antonio Weather February 2025
