If you’re planning to spend New Year’s in Texas, you’ll find the weather can be all over the place. Average highs usually hover in the upper 50s to low 60s Fahrenheit, but lows slip into the 40s. Still, Texas weather history has shown some wild swings, with temps climbing into the 80s or dropping far below freezing.
Rain pops up pretty often, and now and then, ice or snow surprises parts of the state. Head to the coast, and you might get mild, damp air. Go inland, and you could run into a sudden cold snap. It’s honestly smart to check the trends for your region before you make any big plans.
Whether you’re hoping for outdoor celebrations, local adventures, or just a cozy holiday, knowing what to expect—temperature swings, rain, and sunshine—can help you make the most of your Texas New Year’s.
Typical Temperatures in Texas Around New Year’s
Temperatures in Texas at the start of the year really depend on where you are. Some spots stay fairly mild, while others get downright chilly, with the occasional weather surprise.
Statewide Average Highs and Lows
January is Texas’s coldest month. Around New Year’s, highs usually land in the upper 50s to low 60s °F. Lows often dip into the 40s °F.
Northern and inland spots sometimes go down into the 30s °F, but southern and coastal areas hang onto a few extra degrees. For instance, Houston averages about 61°F for the high and 44°F for the low. College Station averages 59°F and 40°F.
Mornings and nights feel cool statewide, but afternoons can warm up enough for just a light jacket. You’ll notice bigger swings between day and night temps, especially away from the humid coast.
Regional Temperature Variations
Texas covers a lot of ground, so the weather shifts a lot from place to place. Coastal towns like Galveston stay the mildest, with highs near 59°F and lows around 48°F.
Inland cities such as Dallas or College Station usually run cooler, and every few years, lows flirt with freezing. Over in western Texas, places like El Paso stay drier and see bigger jumps between day and night. Highs might hit the mid-50s °F, but lows can easily drop below freezing.
Meanwhile, South Texas cities like Brownsville stay warmer, with highs in the mid-60s °F and lows in the upper 40s °F. You’ll want heavier layers up north and west, but a sweater is probably enough on the Gulf Coast.
Notable Temperature Extremes
Texas weather loves to keep you guessing. Houston once hit 81°F on New Year’s, but in 1928, it dropped to 18°F.
College Station also reached 81°F for a warm holiday, but the coldest New Year’s there was just 14°F. Even Galveston, usually mild, saw 27°F in 1979. That winter, College Station even got an ice storm mixed with snow.
You never really know what you’ll get in early January. Sure, the averages lean mild, but it’s always wise to pack for sudden freezes or a freakishly warm day.
Rainfall and Precipitation Patterns
Rainfall in Texas around New Year’s is usually moderate, but it really depends on where you are. Some places get light showers, while others might stay pretty dry. East Texas, though, gets the most consistent wet weather.
Average Rainfall Amounts
Texas averages 1 to 3 inches of rain for the month of January, depending on the region. Central and South Texas usually see about 1.5 to 2 inches, while East Texas can hit 3 inches. West Texas often gets less than 1 inch.
Most rain comes from passing cold fronts or a burst of Gulf moisture. These systems usually bring quick showers, not all-day soakers. Snow sometimes falls in the Panhandle or up north, but it’s rare elsewhere.
Most precipitation in early January falls as light or moderate rain, not heavy downpours. Flooding doesn’t happen often, but wet roads are still a thing.
Likelihood of Wet Days
How many rainy days you’ll get really depends on your spot in Texas. East Texas usually sees 8 to 10 wet days in January. Central Texas averages about 5 to 7 days. West Texas often has fewer than 4 wet days all month.
Most of these are just drizzles or light showers, especially in the east. Heavy storms don’t show up much this time of year, though the coast might get a stronger system from the Gulf.
Rain is usually spread out, so you’re more likely to run into quick showers than a full day of rain. If you’re planning something outside, it’s smart to expect a few brief interruptions.
Rainfall Variations by Region
Rain patterns in Texas during winter are all over the map. East Texas is the wettest, with nearly 3 inches in January and plenty of light rain. Central Texas gets moderate amounts, usually 2 inches or less. South Texas stays drier, but coastal showers still pop up near the Gulf.
West Texas and the desert regions hardly get any rain—less than 1 inch in January. The Panhandle is different, with a mix of light rain and occasional snow, usually 1 to 2 inches of liquid equivalent.
So, if you’re heading to Houston or Beaumont, expect damp weather. El Paso or Midland? You might not see a drop.
Cloud Cover and Sunshine
Around New Year’s, Texas skies flip between clear and cloudy. Sunshine hours change a lot depending on where you are—western Texas sees brighter days than the Gulf Coast. Cloud cover really impacts how warm or cool it feels, especially with winter humidity and storms.
Average Cloudiness
You’ll get a mix of partly cloudy and overcast days in early January. Central and eastern Texas see more clouds, especially after a cold front. Cities on the Gulf, like Houston and Galveston, often stay cloudier thanks to all that Gulf moisture.
Northern and western Texas, like Dallas and El Paso, usually get more breaks in the clouds. Being farther from the Gulf helps the sky clear up faster after storms.
Clouds also make a difference at night. Clear skies let temperatures drop fast, while cloudy nights trap warmth. That’s why inland areas with clearer skies often get colder nights than the coast.
Sunshine Duration
January doesn’t bring a ton of sunshine, but it varies. Dallas might see 180+ hours of sunshine in the month, while Houston averages closer to 140 hours. It all comes down to how long clouds stick around after storms.
Daylight hours are short—about 10 hours of sun per day. Even when it’s sunny, the low winter sun doesn’t warm things up like it does in summer.
If you’re planning outdoor stuff, western and northern Texas usually give you more sunny breaks. On the coast, you’ll probably have to work around more clouds.
Regional Differences in Cloud Cover
The Gulf Coast is the cloudiest spot in Texas around New Year’s. Moist Gulf air brings thick clouds and more rain. Houston, Galveston, and Corpus Christi often wake up to overcast skies that only clear up a bit by afternoon.
Central Texas, including Austin and San Antonio, sits in the middle. You might get a few bright days, then several cloudier ones.
Out west, places like El Paso and Midland usually enjoy clearer skies. The dry air and fewer storms help keep it sunny. If you’re chasing sunshine, the western half of Texas is your best bet in early January.
Weather Differences Across Texas Regions
New Year’s weather in Texas can feel totally different depending on where you are. Temperature swings, rain chances, and even the risk of a freeze change a lot from region to region.
North Central Texas
In Dallas and Fort Worth, temperatures bounce around a lot near New Year’s. Highs usually hit the upper 50s °F, and lows often fall into the upper 30s. Some years bring warm afternoons in the 70s, but hard freezes happen too.
Cold fronts roll through this area more than farther south. One strong front can push temps below freezing overnight, and sometimes you’ll get a bit of ice or sleet. Snow is rare, but it’s shown up now and then.
Rain is usually light, but a quick shower can pop up. Wind can make it feel colder than it really is. If you’re planning to be outside, it’s worth being ready for sudden changes.
Typical Range (Dallas–Fort Worth):
- High: 55–60°F
- Low: 35–40°F
- Rainfall: ~0.1–0.2 inches on average
Gulf Coast and East Texas
Along the Gulf Coast, in places like Houston and Galveston, winters stay milder. Highs reach the upper 50s to low 60s °F, and lows settle in the 40s. Freezing temps don’t happen often, but they’re possible every few years.
Humidity sticks around here, and light rain is more likely. Coastal spots sometimes get heavy downpours—Galveston has even seen over 4 inches of rain on New Year’s before.
The sea breeze keeps temps steady, so you won’t see the big swings like in North Texas. Still, the damp air and clouds can make it feel cooler than you’d expect.
Typical Range (Houston/Galveston):
- High: 59–61°F
- Low: 43–48°F
- Rainfall: ~0.1 inches on average, but heavier totals possible
West and South Texas
In West Texas cities like El Paso, New Year’s is drier, and nights get much colder. Highs usually reach the upper 50s, but lows can fall into the 30s or even 20s. Dry desert air means big swings from day to night.
Snow doesn’t show up often, but it can happen in higher spots or with a strong cold snap. Most years, though, skies stay clear, and the air feels crisp.
South Texas, like San Antonio or down in the Rio Grande Valley, stays warmer. Highs often climb into the 60s or low 70s, with lows in the 40s or 50s. Freezing temps are rare here.
Rain is pretty limited in both regions. If you’re traveling, expect mostly dry weather, though a quick shower can still sneak through with a passing front.
Typical Range:
- West Texas (El Paso): High 55–60°F, Low 30–35°F
- South Texas (San Antonio to Brownsville): High 63–70°F, Low 45–55°F
- Rainfall: Light, usually less than 0.1 inches
Unusual Weather Events and Historical Records
Texas has seen some wild weather around New Year’s. Bitter cold, flooding rains, and even rare snowfalls have all happened, reminding everyone how fast things can change.
Notable New Year’s Weather Extremes
Several New Year’s periods in Texas have brought serious cold. In late December 1983, Arctic air blasted through, and Houston stayed below freezing for nearly five straight days. Some places saw temps drop into the single digits, making travel and ranching pretty risky.
Another big cold snap hit in December 1989. Houston dropped to 7°F, and Galveston hit 14°F—some of the coldest readings ever on the coast. That freeze damaged pipes, crops, and infrastructure all over.
It’s not always cold, though. Some years, South Texas has seen daytime highs near 90°F during the holiday period, which feels wild compared to the deep freezes up north.
Record Rainfall and Drought Years
Texas swings between flooding rains and long, stubborn dry spells during winter. Sometimes, heavy rain near New Year’s swells rivers and causes flash flooding, especially down in Southeast Texas.
Back in 1991, storms around the holidays dumped several inches of rain in just a few days. Houston and nearby areas saw low-lying neighborhoods fill with water.
But then there are years when drought leaves rivers and reservoirs way below normal by January. The winter of 1917 really stands out—College Station barely saw 17 inches of rain the whole year.
That kind of dryness rolled right into the new year, putting a strain on farms and water supplies.
So, when you visit Texas during the holidays, don’t be surprised if you find either muddy, soaked fields or dry, cracked landscapes.
Rare Snowfall Occurrences
Most of Texas rarely sees snow, but every now and then, flakes fall near New Year’s. December 1963 brought several inches of snow to parts of North and Central Texas, and it actually stuck around into January.
That unusual snow turned roads icy and made travel a mess across the region.
Houston had its own brush with snow in December 1989. Measurable flakes fell just before Christmas.
It wasn’t much, but for many coastal towns, that was the last time they saw snow during the holidays.
Up in the Panhandle and North Texas, snow shows up more often. Cities like Amarillo have reported multiple New Year’s snowfalls, sometimes piling up over half a foot.
If you’re visiting, it’s a rare chance to catch some winter scenery in a state that usually gets mild winters.
Planning Tips for New Year’s Activities
Texas weather around New Year’s can flip fast. You might get a warm afternoon, then a freezing night.
If you pack smart, plan your travel, and get ready for outdoor events, you’ll stay comfortable and safe, wherever you go.
What to Pack and Wear
Prepare for everything from mild to cold. Most days hit the upper 50s or 60s°F, but nights can drop into the 30s or even lower.
Layers are your best friend—they let you adjust as the temperature bounces around.
Bring a light jacket or sweater, a heavier coat, and comfortable walking shoes. Planning to be outside? Toss in gloves, a hat, and a scarf.
Rain isn’t super common, but it happens, so a compact umbrella or waterproof layer is a good idea.
Humidity in Houston or Galveston can make chilly air feel even damper. In those spots, pack clothes that dry quickly and skip heavy fabrics that hold moisture.
If you’re heading to West Texas, where it’s drier, focus more on staying warm than worrying about moisture.
Travel Considerations
Holiday travel in Texas usually means packed highways and busy airports. Try to leave earlier than you normally would, especially if you’re driving between Dallas, Houston, or San Antonio.
Traffic gets heavy on New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day.
Weather can throw in extra challenges. Central and North Texas sometimes get freezing rain or fog, which slows things down or causes delays.
Check forecasts often, and give yourself extra time in case things get weird.
Book your events or hotels early—big city celebrations fill up fast.
If you can, stay close to your event so you’re not stuck with a long drive late at night. Ride-sharing or shuttle services make safer choices if you’re out celebrating.
Outdoor Event Preparation
You’ll find big fireworks shows, concerts, and street festivals popping up all over Texas on New Year’s Eve. If you’re heading out, grab some warm layers, sturdy shoes, and maybe a portable blanket or seat for a bit of comfort.
Outdoor events can stretch on for hours. It’s smart to dress for whatever weather might show up.
Rain doesn’t happen often, but it’s possible. Toss a poncho or a small umbrella in your bag just in case.
If you’re in a colder part of Texas, watch out for icy sidewalks. Good shoes with solid traction really help.
Try to get there early if you want a decent spot. Once the sun goes down, the temperature drops fast.
Keeping warm and dry makes the night a lot better. Bring some water and a few snacks, because food lines at big events tend to drag.