Unseasonable Warmth and Overcast Skies: Austin Approaches the 80-Degree Mark Today

Morning Outlook: A Mild and Cloudy Start

Austinites waking up this Tuesday, February 17, 2026, will find a morning that feels more like late April than mid-February. The day begins with a significant amount of cloud cover and residual moisture in the air. Temperatures in the early morning hours are expected to hover around a mild 55 to 57 degrees Fahrenheit, a stark contrast to the typical chilly February mornings the region often experiences. While some areas saw mist or light fog overnight, the primary weather feature for the morning commute will be overcast skies and a steady increase in humidity levels, currently sitting at approximately 51 percent.

Afternoon Peak: Highs Well Above Average

As we transition into the afternoon, the warmth will become even more pronounced. Despite the persistent cloud cover, the mercury is forecasted to reach a high of 79 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit. According to data from the National Weather Service and local tracking, these temperatures are significantly higher than the historical February average for Austin, which usually sits in the low 60s. The air will feel quite warm, but a consistent breeze from the south, gusting at around 14 mph, should provide some relief for those spending time outdoors. The UV index is expected to remain at a moderate level of 3, so while it may be cloudy, sun protection is still recommended for extended outdoor activities.

Evening and Nightfall: Maintaining the Mild Trend

The sun is set to dip below the horizon at approximately 6:21 PM. Following sunset, the cloud cover is expected to remain thick, acting as a blanket that prevents temperatures from dropping too sharply. Evening conditions will stay comfortable for outdoor dining or evening walks, with temperatures slowly receding back into the high 50s. By late tonight, lows will likely settle around 55 degrees, keeping the atmosphere temperate heading into Wednesday morning.

Key Forecast Details and Alerts

For those planning their week, it is important to note that this warming trend is part of a larger pattern that is expected to peak later this Thursday. Today remains exceptionally dry, with a near-zero percent chance of precipitation. Specific stats for today include:

• High Temperature: 80°F
• Low Temperature: 55°F
• Wind: South at 14 mph
• Humidity: 51%
• Precipitation: 0.00 inches (0% chance)
• Sunrise: 7:09 AM
• Sunset: 6:21 PM

Current reports from the National Weather Service indicate that there are no active weather watches, warnings, or advisories for the Austin/San Antonio area at this time. Residents can enjoy the spring-like conditions without any immediate threat of severe weather or rain through the remainder of the day.