Florida, Texas, and Much of the U.S. to See Unseasonably Warm Temperatures for Christmas Week, NOAA Forecast Shows
FLORIDA — Those dreaming of a white Christmas may be disappointed this year. According to the latest NOAA 8–14 Day Temperature Outlook, much of the United States — including Florida, Texas, and the southern plains — is expected to see above-average warmth during Christmas week (December 23–29, 2025).
Meteorologists say a broad area of high pressure across the southern and central U.S. will push temperatures well above seasonal norms, with many regions feeling more like spring than winter. For states like Florida, Texas, and Louisiana, forecasters suggest that mittens and scarves can stay packed away — it’s shaping up to be a warm and sunny holiday season.
NOAA’s Outlook: “Heat Miser” Takes Over the U.S.
The NOAA forecast, issued December 15, shows a deep red swath covering the Central Plains, Deep South, and Gulf Coast, indicating a 70–90% probability of above-normal temperatures through the end of December.
- Florida: Expect daytime highs in the mid-70s to low 80s, even on Christmas Day.
- Texas: Widespread 60s and 70s, with some southern areas near 80°F.
- Southwest U.S.: Temperatures could soar 15–20 degrees above average.
- Midwest and Northeast: Slightly warmer than normal, with “near normal” readings in the Great Lakes and parts of New England.
- Alaska: The only major region likely to stay below average for the period.
“The pattern we’re seeing is classic zonal flow — warm air streaming in from the Pacific and dominating much of the lower 48,” said meteorologist Chris Jones. “It’s the kind of setup that leaves the country wearing short sleeves instead of sweaters for Christmas.”
From Arctic Freeze to a Holiday Warm-Up
This developing warmth marks a major turnaround after recent Arctic blasts that brought subfreezing temperatures and hard freezes to the South earlier in December.
Over the past two weeks, cities like Houston, Atlanta, and Birmingham experienced their first freezes of the season, but the upcoming pattern will reverse that entirely. Forecasters say many of these same areas could rebound by 20 to 30 degrees above their early-December lows, turning what started as a frosty month into one of the warmest Christmas weeks in recent memory.
Impacts and Travel Outlook
For holiday travelers, the news is mostly good. No major snow systems are expected across the lower 48 during the week leading up to Christmas, significantly improving travel conditions across the South and Midwest.
However, the mild pattern may bring fog and humidity to Gulf states, along with elevated pollen counts and mosquito activity in coastal areas. Farmers and gardeners are also being reminded that the sudden warmth could disrupt winter crops or encourage premature plant growth before another potential cold snap in January.
A “Spring-Like” Christmas in the South
Floridians can expect a tropical-style Christmas week, with highs in the 80s and lows in the upper 60s from Miami to Tampa. In Texas, Dallas, Houston, and San Antonio are forecast to hover in the upper 60s to low 70s, nearly 15 degrees above seasonal averages.
“This will be one of those years where Santa might trade his sleigh for a convertible,” joked one Houston forecaster.
Looking Beyond Christmas
While the immediate outlook favors warmth, long-range meteorologists caution that the mild spell may not last deep into January. A renewed push of Arctic air could return early next month as the jet stream shifts northward, potentially setting the stage for another round of winter weather in early 2026.
For now, though, the holiday season looks more sunny than snowy, with much of the country set to celebrate under mild skies.
For detailed local forecasts and regional weather alerts, visit SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com for continuous updates.
