Laredo, Texas Hits 100°F on February 26, Marking the First Triple-Digit Temperature in the United States This Year
LAREDO, TEXAS — The first 100-degree temperature of the year has officially been recorded in the United States, and it happened deep in South Texas.
According to current observations from Laredo International Airport (KLRD), the temperature reached 100°F (38°C) during the afternoon, making it the earliest triple-digit reading nationwide in 2026.
The milestone occurred on February 26 at 1:56 p.m. CST, under fair skies.
Nearly Three Weeks Later Than Last Year
While impressive for February, this year’s first 100-degree mark is actually running later compared to 2025. Last year, the first triple-digit temperature was recorded on February 7, nearly three weeks earlier.
However, the timing does match what occurred in 2024, showing some variability in how quickly extreme heat arrives in late winter across the southern United States.
Conditions at the Time of the Reading
The observation from Laredo International Airport reported:
- Temperature: 100°F (38°C)
- Humidity: 13%
- Wind: North at 9 mph
- Dewpoint: 40°F (4°C)
- Heat Index: 95°F (35°C)
- Visibility: 10 miles
- Barometric Pressure: 29.69 inches
The relatively low humidity helped keep the heat index slightly below the actual air temperature, but triple-digit heat in February remains notable.
Why South Texas Often Gets There First
South Texas frequently claims the nation’s first 100°F reading each year due to:
- Its southern latitude
- Dry continental air masses
- Strong late-winter sun angle
- Limited marine influence compared to coastal zones
Under sunny skies and dry air, temperatures can spike quickly even before the official start of meteorological spring.
What This Signals for the Season Ahead
While one 100-degree reading does not necessarily indicate an immediate heat wave pattern, it does serve as an early reminder that extreme heat season is never far away in South Texas.
Climatologically, February triple-digit readings are uncommon but not unheard of in the Rio Grande Valley region.
As we move toward March, additional warm surges across Texas and the Southwest will be monitored to see if more early-season heat follows.
Stay with WaldronNews.com for continued updates on notable weather milestones and temperature trends across the country.