San Antonio is in for a major weather shift this week as an Arctic front barrels into the region, sending temperatures plummeting to their coldest levels this season.
What starts as a mild, sunny Monday will quickly take a turn by Tuesday night, when a sharp cold front moves through, causing temperatures to nosedive by nearly 50 degrees. By Wednesday morning, the city will be waking up to bone-chilling temperatures in the low 20s, with wind chills making it feel even colder.
The National Weather Service is warning that prolonged freezing conditions could damage pipes, kill unprotected plants, and pose serious risks to people and pets left outdoors. Residents are urged to take precautions now before the worst of the cold arrives.
San Antonio’s Day-by-Day Forecast
Monday, February 17 – Calm Before the Cold
The day will start cool at 39°F (4°C), but plenty of sunshine will warm things up to a pleasant 64°F (18°C) by the afternoon. The evening will remain mild, with temperatures dipping to 51°F (10°C).
Tuesday, February 18 – Last Warm Day Before the Freeze
The morning will feel comfortable at 55°F (13°C), with partly cloudy skies. By the afternoon, temperatures will rise to 73°F (23°C), but don’t get used to it! By the evening, an Arctic front will arrive, dropping temperatures rapidly into the 20s overnight.
Wednesday, February 19 – Arctic Air Takes Over
San Antonio wakes up to freezing temperatures around 24°F (-5°C), and gusty winds will make it feel even colder. Even with sunshine, the high will struggle to reach 44°F (6°C). The night will be even colder, with lows dipping to 21°F (-6°C).
Thursday, February 20 – Freezing Mornings and Cloudy Skies
Morning temperatures will start at a bitter 21°F (-6°C), keeping roads and surfaces icy in some areas. The afternoon will remain cold and cloudy, with highs reaching just 43°F (6°C).
Friday, February 21 – A Chance of Rain or Wintry Mix
The morning starts off cold at 37°F (3°C), with a slight chance of drizzle or light rain. If temperatures drop lower, a brief wintry mix could develop, though no significant accumulation is expected. Highs will only reach 44°F (7°C).
Saturday, February 22 – Gradual Warming, But Still Chilly
The morning will be another cold one at 34°F (1°C), but the afternoon will feel slightly warmer, with highs near 52°F (11°C). The evening will still be cool, with lows around 34°F (1°C).
What This Cold Snap Means for San Antonio
Biggest Temperature Drop of the Season – San Antonio will go from spring-like 70s on Tuesday to sub-freezing temperatures by Wednesday morning.
Multiple Hard Freezes Expected – Several nights will see temperatures in the low 20s, posing a risk to exposed pipes, plants, and animals.
Dangerous Wind Chills – Even though the actual temperatures will be in the 20s and 30s, strong winds will make it feel even colder, increasing the risk of frostbite.
Possible Wintry Precipitation on Friday – While no major snowfall is expected, a mix of rain and sleet could make for slick roads.
How to Stay Safe and Prepare for the Freeze
Protect Your Pipes – Wrap exposed pipes, let faucets drip overnight, and know how to shut off water in case of a freeze.
Bring Pets and Plants Indoors – If it’s too cold for you, it’s too cold for them! Protect pets, plants, and livestock from freezing conditions.
Stock Up on Essentials – Cold weather can lead to power outages and dangerous travel conditions. Make sure you have groceries, blankets, and emergency supplies.
Limit Travel on Icy Roads – If temperatures drop below freezing after rainfall, roads and bridges could become dangerously slick.
Dress in Layers – Bundle up in thick clothing, wear gloves and scarves, and cover exposed skin if heading outside.
Final Thoughts: San Antonio’s Coldest Weather of the Year is Here
San Antonio is no stranger to winter weather, but this Arctic blast will bring some of the coldest temperatures seen in years. With multiple nights of freezing temperatures, strong winds, and the chance of wintry precipitation, residents should take this cold snap seriously.
