Central Texas Braces for Widespread Sunday Morning Freeze as Austin Metro and Hill Country Dip Into the 20s
TEXAS — A widespread freeze is expected across the Austin area and much of Central Texas early Sunday morning, with temperatures continuing to trend colder and hard-freeze conditions likely across the Hill Country, according to forecast temperature data.
Overnight low temperature projections show air temperatures falling into the low to mid-20s in Hill Country communities, while the central Austin metro area is expected to bottom out in the upper 20s to low 30s. These conditions increase the risk for frozen pipes, plant damage, and dangerous exposure, particularly in rural and elevated areas.
Hard Freeze Likely Across the Hill Country
Forecast temperature maps indicate the coldest air settling west and northwest of Austin, where many Hill Country locations are expected to see overnight lows between 22°F and 26°F. This meets hard-freeze criteria, which can damage unprotected vegetation and pose risks to livestock and infrastructure.
Sheltered valleys and low-lying areas may briefly dip even colder, especially under clear skies and calm winds that allow temperatures to fall rapidly overnight.
Austin Metro Expected to Drop Below Freezing
Within the central Austin metro, temperatures are forecast to fall into the upper 20s to near 32°F, marking a widespread freeze event even if some downtown locations hover just above freezing.
Suburban and outlying communities are more likely to drop below the freezing mark, particularly during the pre-dawn hours Sunday, when temperatures typically reach their lowest point.
Coastal Areas Stay Milder but Still Chilly
Farther southeast toward the Texas coast, onshore influence keeps temperatures slightly warmer, with lows generally remaining in the low to mid-30s. While a hard freeze is not expected near the coast, patchy frost remains possible, especially inland from the immediate shoreline.
What Residents Should Prepare For
- Widespread freeze early Sunday morning
- Hard freeze across Hill Country communities
- Upper 20s to low 30s in the Austin metro
- Risk to pipes, pets, plants, and sensitive infrastructure
- Coldest temperatures just before sunrise
Residents are advised to protect exposed pipes, bring pets indoors, and cover or move sensitive plants ahead of the freeze. Those without adequate heating should take precautions to avoid prolonged exposure to cold conditions.
Forecasters note that while temperatures will rebound later Sunday, the early-morning freeze will be impactful, particularly for areas experiencing their coldest night so far this season. For continued weather updates and regional coverage, visit SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com.
