San Antonio Braces for First Hard Freeze of the Season as Arctic Air Drops Temperatures Into the 20s Overnight
TEXAS — San Antonio is preparing for its first hard freeze of the season, as a surge of arctic air pushes deep into South and Central Texas, sending overnight temperatures into the mid to upper 20s and keeping the city below freezing for several hours early Sunday morning.
Hard Freeze Expected Saturday Night Into Sunday Morning
Forecast data shows temperatures in San Antonio falling to around 29 degrees, with some models indicating lows as cold as 26 to 28 degrees if ideal cooling conditions develop. Meteorologists expect approximately six to eight hours of subfreezing temperatures, meeting the criteria for a hard freeze across the metro area.
This will mark San Antonio’s first freeze of the season, a notable shift for a region that typically avoids prolonged freezing conditions.
Freeze Warning Likely for Bexar County
With confidence increasing, Bexar County is expected to be placed under a Freeze Warning, potentially issued later Saturday or early Sunday. Freeze warnings are typically issued when temperatures are forecast to remain below 32 degrees long enough to cause damage to exposed plumbing, vegetation, and infrastructure. Residents are urged to take the warning seriously, as even brief hard freezes can cause burst pipes and plant damage.
Why Temperatures Will Drop So Quickly
Behind a strong cold front, dry air and clearing skies will allow radiational cooling to rapidly lower temperatures overnight. With lighter winds developing late Saturday night, heat will escape efficiently, allowing temperatures to plunge before sunrise Sunday.
This setup favors colder-than-forecast lows, which is why temperatures dipping into the mid-20s cannot be ruled out in parts of the city and surrounding areas.
Extended Freeze Duration Raises Impact Risk
Unlike a brief dip below freezing, the expected six to eight hour duration below 32 degrees increases the risk of pipe freezes, plant loss, and cold exposure hazards. Outdoor pets, unhoused individuals, and those without adequate heating are especially vulnerable.
Officials strongly advise residents to wrap exposed pipes, drip faucets, cover sensitive plants, and bring pets indoors ahead of the coldest hours.
Cold Air Extends Beyond San Antonio
The freeze will not be limited to the metro area. Much of South and Central Texas will experience subfreezing temperatures, while colder air farther north pushes temperatures into the teens and lower 20s across parts of North Texas.
Conditions are expected to gradually improve later Sunday as temperatures rebound above freezing by midday. Are you preparing for the freeze where you live? Share how you’re getting ready and stay informed with continued weather coverage from SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com.
