Polar vortex to hit Texas with arctic air starting Monday. 4 maps show how cold it’ll get

Most of the holidays may be over, but winter is sticking around — and it’s bringing freezing weather to Texas next week.

A polar vortex, a weather pattern similar to the historic winter storm that struck Texas in 2021 — when every county in the state experienced below-freezing temperatures for the first time — is making its presence felt and is expected to reach Texas by Monday.

The upcoming polar vortex will bring arctic air from Canada down throughout most of the U.S. While not as severe as the 2021 Great Texas Freeze, the phenomenon will quickly drop temperatures into the 20s and 30s across Texas next week, down into the teens in some northern parts of the state.

What is a polar vortex?

A polar vortex is a large area of low pressure and cold air that swirls around the Earth’s poles, primarily in the stratosphere, creating a strong band of west-to-east winds. When this vortex weakens, it can send frigid air from the Arctic southward, bringing dangerously cold temperatures to mid-latitude regions like the southern United States.

In 2021, the polar vortex prompted widespread power outages across Texas, resulting in rolling blackouts and leading to the deaths of 246 people.

When will the polar vortex reach Texas?

The effects of the polar vortex are expected to reach Texas on Monday and bring freezing or below-freezing temperatures throughout the week.

The impending event could bring snow to all 48 contiguous states, except for southern California, southern Florida, and southern Arizona. However, snowfall is unlikely in parts of Texas that are not in the northern regions, and any areas that do receive snow will likely experience only a brief period of accumulation, as temperatures are expected to warm back into the 40s during the daytime.

How cold will it get in Texas? See forecast map

The National Weather Service and NOAA forecast Texas temperatures will begin to dip Monday, with some North Texas regions seeing freezing temperatures. By Wednesday, most of the state will have high temperatures in the upper 30s and lows in the teens and low 20s. These will slowly creep back up by Thursday evening.

As several cold fronts rush through Texas, the northern parts of the state will see the lowest temperatures.

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

How to prepare your home during freezing temperatures

To prepare your home for freezing temperatures, insulate exposed pipes, seal any drafts around windows and doors, and ensure your heating system is in good working order.

Here are some tips:

• Insulate vulnerable pipes to prevent frozen pipes. When temperatures drop below 32 degrees, let a few faucets drip to prevent freezing and bursting. Open cabinet doors under sinks to allow warm air to reach the pipes.
• Caulk gaps and openings around windows, doors, air conditioners, and mail chutes to prevent cold air from entering. For extra protection against heat loss, you can install weather stripping and seals.
• Keep driveways and sidewalks free of ice and snow, and repair any step or handrail issues.
• Winter brings more residential fires, so ensure all smoke detectors work by testing them monthly and replacing batteries as needed. Also, install a carbon monoxide detector to prevent toxic gas buildup.
• Keep your thermostat at 65 degrees or higher and ensure your home is well-insulated. A programmable or energy-efficient thermostat can help maintain warmth in key areas while saving on energy costs.

The NWS Weather Prediction Center has general tips for staying safe in winter weather.

How long will the cold last?

These wintry conditions are predicted to sweep through Texas and move on by next weekend.