Austin’s Winter Thaw: Cloudy Skies and Rising Temps Before the Next Cold Snap

Recovery and Rising Temperatures After the Storm

As Austin continues to recover from the significant winter storm that gripped Central Texas earlier this week, Friday, January 30, 2026, brings a welcome break from the freezing precipitation. While the City of Austin officially deactivated its Emergency Operations Center on Wednesday, residents should remain vigilant as the region transitions from emergency response to recovery. Today’s weather is characterized by thick cloud cover and a gradual rise in temperatures, providing a temporary reprieve before another surge of arctic air arrives tomorrow morning.

Morning Forecast: The Lingering Chill

Early morning commuters should exercise extreme caution on the roads today. Although the immediate threat of new ice has passed, residual moisture from the previous storm's sleet and 0.05 inches of ice accumulation remains a hazard. Temperatures in the morning hours will hover in the mid-30s to low 40s. With damp conditions and shaded areas still susceptible to refreezing, bridges and overpasses around Travis County may still feature slick spots. The morning will remain mostly overcast with a light northerly breeze making it feel slightly cooler than the actual air temperature.

Afternoon Outlook: Cloudy Skies and Moderate Highs

By the afternoon, Austin will see its warmest window of the day, with temperatures expected to peak between 53°F and 57°F. The heavy cloud cover will persist throughout the day, limiting sunshine but helping to keep the biting wind at bay. Winds will remain steady out of the north-northwest at approximately 10 to 15 mph, with occasional gusts reaching up to 25 mph. Despite the lack of sun, this afternoon offers a critical window for residents to finish clearing debris or inspecting property damage following the recent freeze.

Evening and Overnight: A Clear Sky and a New Advisory

The weather takes a sharp turn as we head into the evening hours. The thick clouds are expected to clear out after sunset, but this lack of insulation will allow temperatures to plummet rapidly. By late Friday night, lows will drop back into the lower 30s. The National Weather Service has already issued a Cold Weather Advisory for areas north of the I-10 corridor, effective from 3:00 AM to 10:00 AM Saturday morning. Actual low temperatures will range from 20 to 30 degrees overnight, with wind chills making it feel as cold as 13 degrees.

Safety Reminders: Protect the 4Ps

As the next cold front approaches, Austin officials urge residents to continue following the '4Ps' of cold weather safety:

• People: Check on elderly neighbors and ensure everyone has access to a heated environment.
• Pets: Bring all pets indoors as wind chills drop into the teens tonight.
• Plants: Cover sensitive vegetation or move potted plants inside.
• Pipes: Keep faucets dripping and ensure outdoor pipes are insulated to prevent bursting during the Saturday morning freeze.