A strong cold front is expected to sweep through South Texas, bringing a mix of rain, ice, and plummeting temperatures over the weekend.
As Friday progresses, warm temperatures in the 60s will give way to light showers and potentially a storm as the cold front closes in. Overnight, the temperatures will start to drop, leading to increased chances of ice during Saturday evening, especially for areas in the Hill Country.
On Saturday morning, residents can expect mild conditions with light rain continuing throughout the day. However, temperatures will begin to fall drastically, dropping from near 60° in the morning to the 30s by afternoon. While the Hill Country may see ice accumulation in the afternoon, San Antonio is likely to experience intermittent rain until around sunset, when conditions will begin to shift toward ice. Travel conditions across San Antonio are expected to worsen after sunset, particularly as the temperature drops.
By early Sunday, light icing will linger before the sun makes a brief appearance, helping temperatures rise above freezing by midday. However, caution is advised as travel during Saturday night and Sunday morning may be hazardous.
The Hill Country is anticipated to face the brunt of the icy conditions, with ice accumulation potentially reaching up to 0.25 inches. This level of ice poses significant risks, including tree limb breakage and sagging power lines that could lead to power outages. San Antonio will see less ice, with expectations of glazing up to 0.10 inches, which could still create slippery conditions on bridges and overpasses.
As temperatures continue to drop, residents can expect below-freezing conditions to extend for at least 24 hours, with Sunday, Monday, and Tuesday mornings likely experiencing frigid weather. Now is the perfect time for homeowners to prepare by insulating pipes, covering outdoor faucets, and ensuring pets are sheltered during this cold snap.
Stay informed and safe as this challenging winter weather unfolds in South Texas.