Arctic Cold Front to Sweep Across Texas, Bringing Plunging Temperatures

The sudden temperature drop will also usher in thunderstorms across the state

Mar. 31, 2026 at 9:04am

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A strong arctic cold front is set to sweep across Texas this weekend, sending temperatures plummeting across the state. The northern Panhandle region will see the biggest impact, with overnight lows dipping back into freeze territory and afternoon highs only reaching the mid-60s to low-70s. The Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex can also expect chilly evenings in the low 50s, while even San Antonio in South Central Texas will see a significant cooldown after several days in the 90s. The cold front will also bring multiple chances for showers and thunderstorms throughout the extended forecast period.

Why it matters

Texas weather is known for its unpredictability, and this late-season cold front is a prime example. The sudden temperature drop and stormy conditions could disrupt daily routines, impact outdoor activities, and require Texans to adjust their wardrobe and plans. It also highlights the state's vulnerability to extreme weather swings, even as spring arrives.

The details

According to the National Weather Service, the cold front is expected to cross the Texas-Oklahoma border by Saturday, April 3, and sweep southward through the state. The northern Panhandle region, from Dalhart to Amarillo, will see the most dramatic effects, with overnight lows dipping back into freeze territory and afternoon highs only reaching the mid-60s to low-70s. The Dallas-Fort Worth area will also see chilly evenings in the low 50s, while even San Antonio in South Central Texas will experience a significant cooldown after several days in the 90s. The cold front will also bring multiple chances for showers and thunderstorms throughout the extended forecast period.

  • The cold front is expected to cross the Texas-Oklahoma border by Saturday, April 3.
  • The front is expected to reach South Central Texas, including San Antonio, by Saturday evening.

The players

National Weather Service

The federal agency responsible for weather forecasting and issuing warnings in the United States.

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What they’re saying

“'Friday is a bit more interesting as a cold front races south… The cold front will not move through the entire area during the day on Friday as things stand right now, but should be south of the area by midnight or so on Saturday morning.'”

— National Weather Service

“'A more active weather pattern will deliver multiple opportunities for showers and thunderstorms during the extended forecast period, the main chances being Wednesday night and Friday night/Saturday.'”

— National Weather Service Dallas office

“'We get our next taste of active weather with a cold front that pushes through most of TX and gets to us by Saturday evening. This front looks much more promising regarding both convection and rain potential…'”

— National Weather Service San Antonio-Austin office

What’s next

The National Weather Service will continue to monitor the progress of the cold front and provide updated forecasts and warnings as the system moves through Texas.

The takeaway

This late-season cold front serves as a reminder of Texas' unpredictable weather patterns, even as spring arrives. Residents will need to adjust their plans and wardrobes to account for the sudden temperature drop and increased chances of thunderstorms across the state.