Introduction
Texas is known for many things: the Alamo, the phrase ‘everything’s bigger in Texas’ and, of course, the soul-sucking and unrelenting heat. They even reached nearly 120 degrees in 2018. You could literally make breakfast on the sidewalk at that temperature! But, is this a misnomer or an average? As Mexico’s neighbors, Texas experiences incredible heat waves and humidity. Texan’s even pride themselves on the sultry and dry conditions. Luckily for travelers, it’s not always like that.
That said, ‘hot’ and ‘cold’ can mean different things to Texans.
Avoid the Peak Periods
If you’re looking to visit Texas and coming from the north, know that what Texans call cold is what Midwesterns call ‘light jacket’ weather. And what Texans call hot, pretty much everyone else would call ‘don’t leave the house’ weather.
Really, it’s probably best to avoid the summer months. In June, July, and August, temperatures can average above 100 degrees often; and if you’re not a local, heat-stroke can (and does!) happen. That said, things do tend to cool down in the Fall and Winter.
Winter is a Great Time to Visit
While snow is still a rarity in the winter, the weather does indeed cool at the end and beginning of the year, usually culminating in January in terms of peak coldness. Still, come October, If you’re in a Northeast state like Connecticut or a Midwestern state like Wisconsin, Houston or Dallas could be a really refreshing winter getaway destination.
Expect Northern parts of Texas like Dallas and Lubbock to be colder in the winter months. Temperatures can reach below 30 degrees up there. Meanwhile, the Southern end, including Austin and Waco, will see slightly higher temperatures – usually around 50 degrees the majority of days.
Watch Out For Inclement Weather
Interestingly, thunderstorms and tornadoes are common in Texas. In fact, 132 tornadoes hit Texas every year. In 1967, over 200 tornadoes ravaged Texas. Having a Tornado every other day is super impressive, but perhaps not for the best reasons. If you’re a traveler, it’s certainly something to watch out for, and one should be sure to check local weather reports before heading down to the Good ‘Ol Texas.
Conclusion
Year-round, Texas is a coveted tourist destination with mainstays like Dallas and Houston, and up-and-coming places like Austin and Waco. There’s never a shortage of things to do — but try not to do them in the middle of June! We recommend a visit in April or September for maximum enjoyment and the most temperate climate.
