Winter Weather Update: DFW Airport Sees Record-Breaking Cold Snap, But Warmer Temperatures Ahead
DFW Airport has seen nearly three consecutive days at or below-freezing temperatures this week, breaking some records. But by the weekend’s end, it may be warm enough for shorts.
Temperatures Expected to Soar
Temperatures are expected to climb over the weekend, reaching the 70s by Monday and staying warm through midweek, according to the National Weather Service in Fort Worth.
Comparison to Previous Years
For comparison, the freeze in February 2021, which rocked much of the state, including North Texas, brought five consecutive days. The record is 11 days in December 1983, the weather service says.
Ending the Cold Snap?
The warm-up could mark the end of one of the season’s final below-freezing cold snaps. As of Friday, DFW Airport had seen 29 days with temperatures at or below 32 degrees. The figure can "vary greatly," but an average winter sees 34 days, the weather service says.
Records Broken and Set
The record for the most freezes was set in 1978 with 64 days, while the fewest occurred in 1931 with just nine.
Weekend Forecast
A high of 50 degrees with mostly sunny skies is forecast for Saturday, with temperatures Sunday expected to reach as high as 62 degrees, the weather service says. After a slight chance of showers Saturday night, skies are expected to be mostly clear of cloud and sunny.
Dallas Forecast via KXAS-TV (NBC5)
- SUNDAY: A stray shower before 8 am, then milder with a mix of clouds and sun. Low: 43. High: 62.
- MONDAY: Milder with sunshine. Low: 48. High: 71.
- TUESDAY: Sunny and mild. Low: 73. High: 52.
- WEDNESDAY: Sunshine and clouds mixed, pleasant. Low: 46. High: 72.
- THURSDAY: Partly cloudy and a bit cooler. Low: 46. High: 66.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How many days has DFW Airport seen with temperatures at or below 32 degrees?
A: 29 days as of Friday.
Q: What is the average number of days with temperatures at or below 32 degrees in a typical winter?
A: 34 days.
Q: What is the record for the most freezes?
A: 64 days in 1978.
Q: What is the record for the fewest freezes?
A: 9 days in 1931.
