Foggy Friday: The Calm Before Austin’s Massive Arctic Blast

Morning: A Dense and Hazy Start

Austin residents woke up to thick, heavy air this Friday, January 23, 2026. The National Weather Service has issued a Dense Fog Advisory for the Austin and San Antonio areas, effective until 10:00 AM CST. Visibility across much of the city, including major corridors like I-35 and MoPac, has been reduced to a quarter-mile or less. Commuters are urged to slow down, use low-beam headlights, and maintain a safe following distance as the morning drizzle lingers. Despite the gray start, temperatures are unseasonably mild, beginning in the upper 50s and climbing quickly as the fog begins to lift.

Afternoon: Mild Temperatures and Developing Showers

By the afternoon, the fog will give way to overcast skies with a high temperature reaching approximately 70°F. While it may feel like a pleasant winter day, this is the 'calm before the storm.' Forecasts indicate a 40% chance of rain developing after 12:00 PM. These scattered showers are the first signs of a massive Arctic cold front currently barrel-rolling toward Central Texas. Residents are encouraged to finish any outdoor preparations or errands early, as conditions are expected to deteriorate rapidly after sunset.

Evening: Storms and the Big Chill

As we head into Friday night, the chance of precipitation increases to 90%. Showers and potential thunderstorms are expected before midnight, with a projected low of 40°F. This sharp drop in temperature marks the arrival of the front. State officials, including Governor Greg Abbott and leadership from ERCOT, have already held briefings at the State Operations Center to discuss the grid’s readiness. While the power grid is currently stable, the sheer magnitude of the incoming cold has put the city on high alert.

Warnings and Weekend Outlook

While today’s main concern is fog and rain, major warnings loom for the weekend:

• Winter Storm Warning: Effective from 6:00 AM Saturday through Sunday at noon. Freezing rain and sleet are expected to accumulate up to a quarter-inch, making travel nearly impossible.
• Extreme Cold Warning: Effective from Saturday evening through Monday. Wind chills are forecast to drop between -5°F and 5°F.
• Safety Checklist: Now is the time to protect the 'Four Ps': Pipes (insulate and drip), Plants (bring inside), Pets (provide warm shelter), and People (check on elderly neighbors).

Stay tuned to austin.news for real-time updates as this significant weather event unfolds.