Freeze Watch Issued for Deep South Texas as Arctic Air Pushes Temperatures Below Freezing Late Saturday Night Into Sunday Morning
TEXAS — A Freeze Watch is now in effect for northern and western portions of Deep South Texas as a surge of Arctic air is expected to drive temperatures to and below the freezing mark late Saturday night into early Sunday morning, according to the National Weather Service.
Forecasters warn that temperatures could fall as low as 27°F, creating conditions cold enough to damage sensitive vegetation, burst exposed pipes, and pose risks to people and pets in areas not accustomed to prolonged cold.
When the Freeze Is Expected
The Freeze Watch covers the period from:
- 12:00 AM to 9:00 AM Sunday
During this window, temperatures are forecast to drop below 32°F, with the coldest readings occurring just before sunrise Sunday as winds weaken and skies partially clear.
Counties Included in the Freeze Watch
The watch includes inland and northern sections of Deep South Texas, specifically:
- Kenedy County (inland portions)
- Brooks County
- Jim Hogg County
- Zapata County
- Starr County
- Northern Hidalgo County
Cities and communities near the Rio Grande Valley will see the sharpest temperature drop inland, while areas closer to the immediate coast may remain slightly warmer but still cold enough for frost concerns.
Why This Cold Outbreak Is Happening
This freeze is being driven by a strong Arctic air mass plunging deep into the southern Plains and Texas, behind a powerful cold front sweeping through the region.
Key factors include:
- Direct north-to-south Arctic air flow
- Clear overnight conditions, allowing rapid heat loss
- Light winds late Saturday night, enhancing radiational cooling
This setup allows temperatures to fall quickly once the sun sets, especially across rural and inland counties.
Potential Impacts
Residents in the Freeze Watch area should prepare for:
- Damage to crops and sensitive plants
- Frozen or burst pipes, especially in unprotected outdoor plumbing
- Cold stress for pets and livestock
- Dangerous conditions for people without adequate heating
Officials urge residents to take precautions early, including covering plants, insulating pipes, bringing pets indoors, and checking on elderly or vulnerable neighbors.
What Happens Next
A Freeze Watch means freezing temperatures are possible, but confidence is still increasing. If forecast confidence improves, the watch may be upgraded to a Freeze Warning before conditions arrive.
WaldronNews will continue monitoring updates from the National Weather Service and provide alerts if warnings are issued or temperatures are forecast to drop further.
Stay with WaldronNews for the latest Texas freeze updates, safety guidance, and overnight temperature tracking as this cold outbreak unfolds.