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Houston's Wild Weather: 80s Now, Freezes Later?
10 Feb
Summary
- Houston experienced Arctic blasts followed by 80s Fahrenheit.
- Freezing temperatures can occur as late as April 10.
- Frost risk remains even with temperatures above freezing.
Southeast Texas is experiencing a significant temperature swing, moving from recent Arctic air to highs in the 80s Fahrenheit. This dramatic shift raises questions about whether winter has concluded.
Climatology suggests the average last day for freezing temperatures is around February 13. However, historical data shows Houston has recorded temperatures at or below 32 degrees Fahrenheit as late as April 10, 1973. More recently, mid-March 2023 also saw freezing temperatures during spring break.
Even when temperatures remain above freezing, between 33 and 36 degrees Fahrenheit, frost can still form. This poses a risk for springtime gardeners who may be planning their planting schedules. The typical last frost date is March 3, but late frosts can occur into early April.
While the next two weeks in Houston are forecasted to be spring-like with above-normal temperatures, this trend does not guarantee immunity from freezes or frost. A precedent was set when warm, mid-70s afternoon highs preceded a winter storm with freezing rain in January.
