A powerful surge of Arctic air has returned, plunging temperatures below freezing across at least 40 states. This icy blast is moving swiftly, bringing dangerously low wind chills and the potential for snow in select regions.
Arctic Air Makes Conditions Hazardous
The Northern Plains are experiencing some of the lowest temperatures recorded so far, with wind chills so severe that frostbite can develop in as little as 10 minutes of exposure, as reported by CNN. Meanwhile, Texas is also feeling the brunt of this cold front, as more than 120 counties—nearly half the state—are currently under an extreme cold watch or warning.
In areas like the Panhandle and South Plains, “feels-like” temperatures have plummeted below zero, making outdoor exposure extremely dangerous.
Texas Faces Unrelenting Cold, but Warmer Days Are Ahead
Although Texans are facing brutally cold conditions, relief is on the horizon. By early next week, temperatures are expected to rebound significantly, climbing back into the upper 60s and mid-70s. This pattern of wild temperature swings has been a recurring trend this winter, with some regions reaching the upper 80s one week and plunging into the negatives the next.
Will Texas See Snow This Week?
While snow is unlikely for most of Texas, the northernmost Panhandle and parts of the northern South Plains could see a light dusting. However, any accumulation is expected to be minimal.
Residents should still prepare for an extended stretch of frigid weather. North Texas, the New Mexico border, and the Panhandle will see below-freezing temperatures for several days. In the northern Panhandle, nighttime lows will drop below zero, with daytime highs struggling to rise above freezing.
The Coldest Days Are Still Ahead
By early Tuesday morning, wind chill values in the northern Panhandle will drop to between -5 and -10 degrees. At the same time, actual temperatures will drop below zero by late Tuesday into early Thursday. While snow chances remain slim, the brutal cold will linger for several days before a rapid warm-up begins.