A powerful Arctic blast is set to sweep through San Antonio this week, bringing freezing temperatures, biting winds, and serious risks to health and safety. Forecasters warn that wind chills could drop into the single digits, making it feel even colder than the thermometer suggests.
The National Weather Service has issued an Extreme Cold Watch, urging residents to take precautions now before the frigid air settles in. Power demand is expected to surge, and ERCOT (the Electric Reliability Council of Texas) has already issued a weather watch as a precaution. While officials believe the grid will hold, Texans know all too well how unpredictable winter storms can be.
Here’s What to Expect: San Antonio’s Day-by-Day Forecast
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Monday, February 17: A comfortable start to the week with sunny skies and a high of 68°F. Evening temperatures will dip to a mild 52°F. Enjoy it while you can because things are about to change fast.
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Tuesday, February 18: The day starts pleasantly warm, hitting 73°F, but don’t let it fool you. By nighttime, an Arctic cold front will blast through the city, sending temperatures tumbling to 27°F.
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Wednesday, February 19: This will be a shock to the system. Even with sunshine, the high temperature will barely reach 46°F, and overnight, it will plunge to a bone-chilling 21°F. With strong winds, it could feel even colder.
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Thursday, February 20: A brutally cold morning, with temperatures struggling to reach 40°F in the afternoon. Overnight, expect it to hover near freezing at 33°F.
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Friday, February 21: The cold hangs around with highs staying near 39°F and nighttime lows around 34°F.
Why This Cold Wave is a Big Deal
San Antonio isn’t used to this kind of extended deep freeze. With freezing conditions expected to last for multiple days, the risk of icy roads, power outages, and heating issues goes way up. Wind chills as low as 10°F could cause frostbite in less than 30 minutes, and exposed pipes are at high risk of freezing.
ERCOT is already preparing for a major surge in energy demand from Wednesday through Friday. While officials say the grid should hold, Texans have learned that winter weather and the power grid don’t always get along.
Governor Greg Abbott has urged all residents to take this seriously, warning that extreme cold can be just as dangerous as a heatwave if people aren’t prepared.
How to Stay Safe as the Cold Sets In
- Dress for the Freeze: Wear layers, gloves, scarves, and thick socks. Even a short time outside could leave you shivering.
- Protect Your Pipes: Let faucets drip and open cabinet doors under sinks to prevent freezing. If temperatures drop too fast, pipes could burst.
- Check on Family & Neighbors: The elderly, young children, and people without heating are the most at risk. Make sure they have a warm, safe place to stay.
- Keep Pets Indoors: If it’s too cold for you, it’s too cold for them. Bring pets inside or provide warm shelter and unfrozen water.
- Be Smart with Heaters: Keep space heaters away from curtains, furniture, and anything flammable. Never use a grill or gas stove indoors—carbon monoxide poisoning is deadly.
When Will It Warm Up Again?
San Antonio will remain cold for a while, with only gradual warming expected by the weekend. Temperatures won’t return to normal immediately, so bundling up and staying prepared is key.
