St. Patrick’s Day in Texas usually brings mild spring weather, but the details really depend on where you are. Most years, you’ll see highs in the 70s, lows in the 50s, and just a small chance of rain. Honestly, it’s a pretty comfortable time to be outside for events, parades, or whatever else you’re planning.
But Texas weather? It loves to keep you guessing. A warm afternoon in Austin might feel nothing like a breezy morning in Dallas or a dry evening in El Paso. Some years, you’ll get near-summer heat. Other years, chilly winds or heavy rain might crash the party.
If you know what to expect, planning gets easier. Picking an outfit for a parade, deciding on a day trip—these things all hinge on the weather. Let’s look at typical patterns, regional quirks, and a few wild years that make celebrating St. Patrick’s Day in Texas a unique experience.
Typical Weather Patterns on St. Patrick’s Day in Texas
St. Patrick’s Day weather in Texas usually feels mild and leans into spring. Rain can pop up, and conditions shift fast as winter gives way to warmer days.
Average High and Low Temperatures
During the day, you’ll usually see highs in the upper 60s to low 70s across most of Texas. Cities like Houston and College Station often hit the low 70s. Coastal spots like Galveston tend to hover in the upper 60s.
At night, temperatures drop to the upper 40s or mid-50s. Inland areas cool off more, sometimes dropping near 50°F. Coastal towns usually stay milder, often in the upper 50s.
Historical records show that Austin hit the upper 80s in 1972—pretty wild for March. On the flip side, some early 20th-century records show lows near freezing. Texas weather can swing hard, even on the same day.
| Location | Avg High | Avg Low |
|---|---|---|
| Houston | 72°F | 53°F |
| Galveston | 69°F | 59°F |
| College Station | 73°F | 51°F |
Rainfall and Precipitation Frequency
Rain on St. Patrick’s Day? It happens, but not every year. Data suggests measurable rainfall shows up in about a quarter to a third of years, depending on the city.
Houston averages about 0.08 inches of rain on March 17, and Galveston gets closer to 0.12 inches. College Station is right there with Houston at 0.08 inches. Usually, these are just light showers, but storms can surprise you with heavier bursts.
In 1957, Houston got over 2.5 inches, and Galveston nearly 3 inches on St. Patrick’s Day. Those are rare, but they prove that a downpour isn’t off the table. If you’re planning to be outside, just bring something for the rain, just in case.
Spring Weather Variability
March in Texas is a wildcard. St. Patrick’s Day lands right in the middle of this unpredictable stretch. One year, you might get a warm, sunny afternoon. The next, it could be cool and damp.
Severe weather doesn’t show up often on this date, but it has happened. In 1987, strong winds in Southeast Texas knocked down trees and power lines. Thunderstorms in 1997 dumped heavy rain along the coast, though nothing too catastrophic.
With all this in mind, expect the unexpected. You might need a jacket in the morning and short sleeves by the afternoon. And if you’re headed to a parade or festival, rain gear isn’t a bad idea.
Regional Weather Differences Across Texas
Weather in Texas can vary a lot in mid-March. Northern areas wake up to cooler mornings, while the coast brings more humidity and rain. Central Texas sits somewhere in between, but the weather can change fast. If you’re traveling or planning an outdoor event, these differences matter.
North Texas Climate Trends
In North Texas—think Dallas–Fort Worth—St. Patrick’s Day temperatures usually start in the mid-40s and climb to the upper 60s or low 70s. Cold fronts still sweep through sometimes, bringing windy, dry air, or warmer, humid air if you’re ahead of a front.
Rain is possible, and March can bring thunderstorms. Severe weather season starts ramping up now, so hail and strong winds show up more here than farther south.
Snow is almost unheard of by mid-March, but a late freeze could sneak in. If you’re going out for a parade or festival, grab a light jacket for the morning and stay flexible in the afternoon.
Southeast Texas Weather Overview
Southeast Texas—Houston, Galveston, College Station—brings more humidity on St. Patrick’s Day. Highs usually land in the upper 60s to low 70s. Lows run from the low 50s inland to upper 50s along the coast.
Rain shows up more often here. Records say about a third of St. Patrick’s Days have measurable rain in this region. Galveston, being right on the coast, often sees heavier showers than inland cities.
Severe weather is less common than up north, but it can happen. That 1987 wind event caused damage in parts of Southeast Texas. Most years, though, you’ll just deal with muggy air or some passing showers.
Central Texas Conditions
Central Texas—Austin and the Hill Country—usually gets mild afternoons in the low 70s, with cooler mornings around 50°F. The weather here mixes northern and coastal vibes, so it can swing either way.
Rain chances aren’t high, but you can’t rule them out. Thunderstorms sometimes pop up, especially when Gulf moisture meets a cold front. These storms tend to be scattered and short-lived, but they can dump a lot of rain in one spot.
If you’re outside for St. Patrick’s Day, you’ll probably find the weather comfortable. Still, grab a light jacket for the morning and an umbrella just in case.
Notable Weather Extremes and Historical Records
Texas has seen all kinds of weather on St. Patrick’s Day. Some years, temperatures soar. Other years, a cold snap sneaks in, or rain soaks the festivities. Snow? That’s never happened on March 17 in the big cities.
Warmest and Coldest Years
Most of the time, mid-March is mild in Texas. But sometimes, the state turns up the heat. At Austin’s Camp Mabry, the warmest St. Patrick’s Day reached 89°F in 1972. That’s basically summer weather. Other central Texas cities have also hit the mid-to-upper 80s during those fluke warm years.
Cold years do happen, though. Some North Texas spots have only reached the 40s for highs, with lows near freezing. Usually, a late cold front brings brisk winds and chilly air.
So, if you’re traveling or organizing an event, you really need to be ready for either a toasty afternoon or a cold evening. Layering is your friend if you’re heading to a parade or festival.
Wettest St. Patrick’s Days
Rain records for March 17 are all over the place, but some years stand out. Central and eastern Texas have seen 1 to 2 inches of rain in a single day, which can make for some muddy parades and soggy festival grounds.
These heavy rains usually come from spring storm systems rolling through. Sometimes, thunderstorms develop and bring quick downpours with gusty winds. Getting around can be tricky, especially if you’re on smaller roads or at an outdoor event.
If you’re celebrating outside, keep in mind that March weather can flip fast. A little rain gear goes a long way if showers roll through.
Absence of Snowfall
Texas just doesn’t get snow on St. Patrick’s Day. Austin, Dallas, Houston—none of them have recorded measurable snow on March 17. The holiday falls too late for most winter storms to make it this far south.
Sure, rare March snowstorms have happened, but those show up earlier in the month and are usually gone by mid-March. By St. Patrick’s Day, highs usually climb into the 60s or 70s, so snow isn’t even a consideration.
For visitors, this means you’ll see green landscapes and not have to worry about snow messing up parades or travel. Organizers can plan outdoor events without the stress that comes with northern states in March.
Weather Impact on St. Patrick’s Day Celebrations
Texas weather in mid-March can shift quickly. You’ll get mild afternoons, cool mornings, and a fair shot at rain. These changes can really shape how you prep for outdoor gatherings and how organizers set up bigger events.
Outdoor Parade Weather Considerations
Parades are a big deal on St. Patrick’s Day, but weather can make or break them. Texas highs usually land in the upper 60s or low 70s—great for walking around. Early mornings might start near 50°F, so a light jacket isn’t a bad call.
Rain isn’t rare on March 17. In Houston, for example, measurable rain has happened about 28–43% of the time. Wet weather can make streets slick and cut down on crowds, so a poncho or umbrella comes in handy.
Wind sometimes causes trouble too. Strong gusts have knocked over decorations in past years. If you’re bringing chairs, banners, or tents, make sure you secure them.
To stay comfortable, layer up, wear shoes that can handle wet ground, and check the forecast before you head out. It’s the little stuff that keeps your day running smoothly.
Festival and Event Planning Tips
If you’re organizing or attending a St. Patrick’s Day festival, weather planning matters just as much as the schedule. One year, you’ll get sun. The next, you might deal with thunderstorms. That’s Texas for you.
Set up tents or covered areas for food vendors and seating. This helps with light rain and gives shade if things heat up. Portable mats or flooring can keep walkways from turning into mud pits.
For evening events, temperatures can drop pretty fast after sunset. Heaters are nice if you can get them, or at least let guests know to bring extra layers.
Watch for severe weather alerts. Storms aren’t common on March 17, but they do happen—sometimes with high winds. Having a backup plan for delays or moving things indoors can save your event.
If you prep for the usual March weather, you’ll have fewer headaches and a better day all around.
Severe Weather and Safety Precautions
St. Patrick’s Day in Texas can deliver mild spring weather, but it also marks the start of storm season. You might face rain, thunderstorms, or even damaging winds. Staying aware and taking simple steps to stay safe really pays off.
Thunderstorm and Rain Risks
Rain isn’t unusual on March 17 in Texas. In Houston, measurable rain has shown up about 28–43% of the time, depending on the city. Heavy downpours aren’t a sure thing, but they can develop fast, especially near the coast.
Thunderstorms start ramping up from mid-March through May, and St. Patrick’s Day sits right at the beginning of that window. Past years have brought severe storms with strong winds that knocked down trees and power lines. Hail and flash flooding can happen too, especially in cities with bad drainage.
If you’re planning outdoor activities—parades, festivals, you name it—remember that lightning can strike before a storm is right overhead. Take shelter in a sturdy building or car as soon as you hear thunder. If you can hear thunder, you’re close enough to be at risk.
Preparing for Changing Weather
Texas weather in March? It can flip on you fast, so it’s smart to plan ahead. Just because you wake up to sunshine doesn’t mean you won’t get caught in rain later.
Toss a light rain jacket or a small umbrella in your bag. That way, you’re not left scrambling if the skies open up.
If you’re driving to any celebrations, check the road conditions before you go. Wet pavement makes it harder to stop, and flooded streets can be surprisingly dangerous. Even a few inches of moving water can stall your car, so don’t risk it.
For bigger gatherings, make sure you know where you can duck inside if a storm rolls through. Local weather alerts on your phone or radio can keep you in the loop.
What to Wear and Pack for St. Patrick’s Day in Texas
Mid-March in Texas is a bit of a wildcard—warm afternoons, cooler evenings, and light rain sometimes sneaks in. You’ll want clothes that keep you comfy outdoors, especially if you’re hanging out at parades or festivals. Being ready for sudden weather changes just feels smart.
Recommended Clothing for Daytime
Daytime highs usually hit the mid-60s to mid-70s °F around St. Patrick’s Day. A lightweight top with jeans, chinos, or breathable pants is a solid choice.
If you’re heading to a parade or outdoor event, short sleeves or a light long-sleeve shirt should do the trick.
Everyone’s wearing green, so maybe grab a green T-shirt, blouse, or casual dress to join the fun.
You’ll want comfortable walking shoes—think sneakers or flats—since you’ll probably be on your feet a lot.
Don’t forget sunglasses, a hat, and sunscreen to handle that midday sun. Sometimes it feels stronger than you’d expect.
A small daypack comes in handy for water, snacks, and any festive stuff you pick up while you’re out.
Evening and Rain Gear Essentials
Evenings in Texas can dip into the 50s °F, so go ahead and toss a light jacket or sweater into your bag. A denim jacket, cardigan, or windbreaker gives you just enough warmth without feeling bulky.
If you’re heading to an outdoor concert or hanging out after sunset, layering really helps. You never quite know when you’ll want to add or shed a layer.
March weather in Texas sometimes surprises you with quick rain showers. Bring a compact umbrella or a light rain jacket to stay dry, but don’t bother with heavy gear.
You probably won’t need waterproof shoes, but closed-toe shoes make walking on damp streets a lot more comfortable.
Planning to stay out late? Pack a portable phone charger so your phone doesn’t die on you.
A small crossbody bag or neck wallet keeps your stuff safe when you’re in a crowded festival area.
With a few layers and light rain gear, you’ll be ready for whatever the day throws your way.