Say goodbye to summer, hello to fall-like weather

HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — October has been hot, and we've seen temperatures all month long above average. That pattern continues today with highs reaching the upper 90s for most of the Rio Grande Valley. Records will likely be broken again, but the weather pattern will shift starting tonight, thanks to a strong cold front.

This cold front, as of posting, is currently located in far northwest Texas. This frontal boundary will move south throughout the day. We're looking at several impacts for us here in the Valley, so let's dive right in.

Temperatures

As the cooler airmass settles in, Wednesday morning will start near average with temperatures in the low 60s. Afternoon highs reaching the upper 70s to low 80s. Much cooler conditions for Thursday and Friday morning with overnight lows on either side of 50 degrees. The last time the Valley saw weather this cold was the morning of April 8, 2025, at 52°. Thursday afternoon will warm to the upper 70s. Below-average conditions continue Friday afternoon, on Halloween, with highs in the low 80s. More seasonable weather returns for the weekend, heading into Daylight Saving Time. Dry weather and sunshine are expected all week long.

Winds

The cold front will also bring the Valley strong north winds. It'll be one of those fronts you'll know has arrived because you'll be able to hear the wind. Sustained winds out of the north at 15 to 25mph with gusts around 40mph early Wednesday morning. On the bright side, sustained winds and wind gusts will diminish throughout the day tomorrow.

Rain chances

Isolated showers are also on the table tonight, but coverage isn't that impressive. A line of showers and thunderstorms will develop behind the front as it pushes south, that is for certain. The uncertainty lies with how far west this line will extend. I have rain coverage at 20 percent, but keep in mind the highest coverage for rain will be over the coastal waters and the immediate coastline, rapidly decreasing further inland.

Fire Danger

Once the front moves through, a much cooler and drier airmass is expected. Dew points (the mugginess) will drop into the 20s through Wednesday. The strong north winds, in combination with the dry air and low relative humidity, will increase the fire risk tomorrow. As a result, a Fire Weather Watch is in place for all four counties across the DMA. Farmers, ranchers, and all others should avoid any activity that could create a spark because if any fires develop, they could rapidly increase in size and intensity, move quickly, and be very difficult to control.

Beach

Because of the strong winds, the beaches will have hazardous conditions. Increased surf heights and strengthened rip currents for both Wednesday and Thursday. High surf advisories will likely be needed.

Make sure to stay up to date with the forecast and stick with the Valley Storm Team for the latest.