Texas, Oklahoma, Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, and Georgia Forecast to See Record-Breaking Christmas Warmth as Temperatures Surge 20–30 Degrees Above Average
SOUTHERN AND CENTRAL UNITED STATES — Christmas Day is shaping up to feel more like late spring across a large portion of the central and southern United States, as forecast data shows unusually warm and dry conditions spreading across the Central Plains, Southern Plains, and Southeast, with some locations likely to challenge or break temperature records.
According to temperature anomaly and record-potential maps, highs on Christmas Day are expected to soar into the 70s and 80s across multiple states — levels that are 20 to 30 degrees above normal for late December.
“This could be one of the warmest Christmas Days on record for parts of the South.”
Central and Southern Plains Poised for Exceptional Christmas Warmth
The strongest temperature anomalies are centered over the Central and Southern Plains, where forecast guidance shows widespread record or near-record high temperatures.
States most impacted include:
- Texas
- Oklahoma
- Kansas
- Arkansas
In these areas, Christmas Day highs are expected to reach the upper 70s to lower 80s, an extraordinary departure from normal December conditions. Some locations may approach daily record highs set decades ago.
Southeast Expected to See Summerlike Temperatures for Christmas
The warm pattern extends eastward into the Southeast, where dry air and strong upper-level ridging will allow temperatures to climb well above seasonal averages.
States likely to experience near-record warmth include:
- Louisiana
- Mississippi
- Alabama
- Georgia
- Florida
Forecast highs in the Southeast are expected to range from the low 70s to near 80 degrees, creating conditions more typical of early fall than Christmas.
“For many, it may feel more like grilling weather than winter.”
Dry Weather Pattern Reinforces the Warmth
In addition to the heat, forecast models indicate that most of the warm region will remain dry, with little to no precipitation expected on Christmas Day.
This dry setup allows sunshine to further amplify temperatures, especially across the Plains and Deep South. Travel conditions are expected to be favorable, with minimal weather-related disruptions.
Record Highs Possible in Dozens of Locations
National forecast data shows dozens of record high temperatures may be tied or broken on Christmas Day across the South and central U.S.
The combination of:
- Strong upper-level ridging
- Southerly surface flow
- Lack of cold air intrusion
has created an unusually stable and warm holiday pattern.
Northern Tier and Northeast Will Not Share the Warmth
While warmth dominates the southern half of the country, colder air remains entrenched farther north. Portions of the Upper Midwest, Great Lakes, and Northeast will stay much closer to seasonal norms, creating a sharp north-to-south temperature contrast.
This divide explains why some parts of the country may be experiencing near-record warmth while others remain firmly in winter.
What This Means for Holiday Plans
For millions across the South and Plains, Christmas Day weather will be:
- Mild to warm
- Dry
- Ideal for outdoor gatherings
However, officials remind residents that rapid temperature swings later in winter remain possible once atmospheric patterns shift.
“This is an exceptional warm spell — not a sign winter is over.”
Pattern Will Be Monitored Heading Into Late December
Meteorologists will continue watching for changes in the jet stream and signs of colder air attempting to move south as December winds down. For now, confidence remains high that Christmas Day will be unusually warm across much of the southern United States.
Are you planning outdoor activities this Christmas because of the warm weather? Share your local conditions and follow ongoing holiday weather coverage at WaldronNews.com.