Austin residents should brace for a week of chaotic weather, with a mix of drizzles, dangerous thunderstorms, and a shocking temperature drop that will send the city from near 80°F (26°C) to freezing conditions almost overnight.
The week will begin cloudy and mild, with on-and-off drizzle, before intense storms hit on Tuesday, bringing the potential for damaging winds and flash flooding. But the real shocker comes Wednesday night, when temperatures will plummet over 40 degrees, ushering in frigid conditions that could linger into the weekend.
This week, you’ll need an umbrella, a winter coat, and a strong dose of patience.
Breaking Down Austin’s Chaotic Weekly Forecast
Austin’s weather will be anything but stable this week. Here’s a day-by-day breakdown of what to expect:
- Monday (Today): Cloudy with lingering drizzle, keeping the city damp and cool. Highs will reach 58°F (14°C), while the night stays mild at 55°F (13°C).
- Tuesday: The most dangerous day of the week. Expect cloudy skies early, followed by a strong line of thunderstorms in the afternoon.
- Flash flooding and damaging winds are possible.
- Highs will climb to 64°F (18°C), but rain could make travel difficult.
- The night will remain mild at 53°F (12°C), but the storms may linger.
- Wednesday: A tale of two seasons. The day starts warm with some sunshine, hitting a high of 78°F (26°C). But by nightfall, a powerful Arctic front will send temperatures crashing down to 34°F (1°C).
- A temperature drop of over 40 degrees is expected in just a few hours.
- Gusty winds will make it feel even colder, so winter coats will be needed by evening.
- Thursday: Cold weather sets in. The high will barely reach 45°F (7°C), and the morning will be frigid with lows in the 30s. Skies will be partly cloudy, but the chill will linger.
- Friday: A slight warm-up, but still cool, with a high of 61°F (16°C). Expect cloudy skies, but no major storms.
- Saturday: More changes ahead.
- The day starts warm and humid, reaching 76°F (24°C), but another front will arrive by night.
- Overnight lows will plummet again to 31°F (0°C).
What This Means for Austin Residents
This extreme weather shift will have serious impacts on travel, outdoor plans, and overall comfort.
- Storm Risks on Tuesday:
- Flash flooding is possible, especially in low-lying areas.
- Gusty winds could knock down tree branches and power lines.
- Travelers should be prepared for delays and road closures.
- Temperature Whiplash on Wednesday Night:
- The drastic drop in temperatures could be hazardous for people without proper cold-weather gear.
- Pets, plants, and outdoor pipes should be protected before the front arrives.
- Strong winds will make it feel even colder than the thermometer suggests.
- Icy Cold Mornings by Thursday:
- Morning temperatures in the 30s will feel bitterly cold compared to the start of the week.
- If you don’t already have a winter coat ready, you’ll need one by Thursday morning.
How to Stay Safe & Prepared for Austin’s Weather Shifts
With such drastic weather changes ahead, it’s important to plan ahead and take precautions.
- Prepare for Severe Storms on Tuesday – Flash floods and strong winds could make travel hazardous. Avoid driving through flooded streets and stay indoors if possible.
- Protect Pipes, Pets, and Plants Before Wednesday Night – Temperatures will drop quickly, and strong winds could cause additional cold stress.
- Dress for the Weather—All of It! – You’ll start Wednesday in short sleeves but end the night needing a heavy winter coat. Be prepared for both.
- Be Cautious on the Roads – Icy patches could form Thursday morning if temperatures dip below freezing. Drive carefully and allow extra travel time.
- Check for Power Outages – High winds Tuesday and temperature drops Wednesday could lead to scattered power issues. Keep flashlights and blankets handy just in case.
Why Is Austin Experiencing Such Extreme Weather?
This wild mix of storms, heat, and cold air is caused by a powerful clash of weather systems.
- Early in the week, warm and humid Gulf air is dominating, bringing clouds and drizzle.
- On Tuesday, a strong storm system will push through, triggering heavy rain and possible severe weather.
- By Wednesday night, an Arctic front will slam into Central Texas, sending temperatures crashing.
- By Saturday, yet another front will move through, bringing another round of weather whiplash.
This kind of weather chaos isn’t unusual for Texas in winter, but the speed of the changes and the severity of the temperature drop make this week particularly extreme.
Final Thoughts: Austin’s Weather Is About to Get Wild—Be Ready!
Austin residents should expect a little bit of everything this week—drizzle, storms, warm weather, and an Arctic blast.
- Tuesday’s storms could be dangerous, bringing flash floods and damaging winds.
- Wednesday’s record-breaking temperature drop will turn a warm afternoon into a freezing night.
- Thursday and Saturday will bring cold mornings, requiring extra layers and winter gear.
