A dramatic shift in the weather is on the horizon for Central and North Texas, as a powerful cold front barrels through the region on Sunday. Behind it, the coldest air of the season so far will settle in, bringing gusty winds and a sharp drop in temperatures.

🌬️ Sunday’s Chill and Bluster – North Texans may struggle to climb out of the 50s during the day, while Central Texas will hover in the low to mid-60s. Winds out of the northwest will add to the bite, sustained at 15 to 25 mph with gusts reaching 30 to 40 mph, especially from late morning into mid-afternoon. Residents are urged to secure outdoor items and avoid outdoor burning.

🔥 Fire Weather Watch in Effect – South-Central Texas faces a heightened fire risk Sunday, with a Fire Weather Watch in place from morning through evening. Dry conditions, strong winds, and low humidity could lead to rapid fire spread. Please avoid open flames, keep vehicles off dry grass, and properly discard cigarettes.

❄️ First Freeze of the Season – By Sunday night, many locations will dip to near or below freezing for the first time this fall. Most areas will see lows in the low 30s, but rural and sheltered spots near the Red River and across the Big Country could plunge into the upper 20s. A Freeze Watch is in effect Sunday evening through Monday morning for parts of north-central, northeast, and south-central Texas.

🌄 Cold Start to the Work Week – Monday morning will be frigid, with temperatures well below seasonal averages. Tuesday morning will bring another chilly wake-up, with lows in the 30s and low 40s. Portions of the Hill Country may experience a light freeze both nights.

☀️ Midweek Warm-Up – After this brief blast of late fall chill, sunshine and warmth return. Starting Wednesday, expect dry conditions, breezy afternoons, and highs near 80 degrees—perfect for outdoor plans and fall festivities.

📻 Stay Informed – KNCT Meteorologist Bill Hecke reminds listeners to prepare for the cold and fire risks, and to stay tuned for hourly updates. Note: The NOAA weather radio transmitter in Austin is currently off the air due to equipment issues, but technicians are working to restore service. For the latest reports, visit myKNCT.com.