Early hard freeze due tonight

Look at it this way — we’re ahead of the game. Just how much depends on who you talk to.

According to the Old Farmers Almanac, Nov. 23 is the average date for the first frost in San Marcos; while the National Weather Service (MWS) puts it a day later, on Nov. 24.

Either way, the expectation of 26 degrees overnight tonight is a deal-breaker, though not a record breaker in terms of the date (the earliest freeze on record in San Marcos came on Oct. 25, 1955).

Records will be broken, however, including (according to the NWS) in Austin, San Antonio and as far south as Del Rio. 

The freeze warning that began at 8 p.m. Monday and extends through today covers all of South Central Texas including the Rio Grande and Coastal Plains. Forecasters warn of sustained winds of 15 to 25 mph with gusts up to 35 mph adding a wind chill to the already scant mercury registering on local thermometers, meaning the real feel of the air will be in the 20s or teens.

If you haven’t already, make sure to plan for the four “Ps,” of people, pets, plants and pipes. Residents are also advised to check on their elderly friends, family members and neighbors during the cold snap.

The temperatures will be even lower, forecasters say, because of a clear sky overnight.

Today, the NWS says, we can expect a high near 46. On Wednesday, the mercury should climb into the low 50s.