When most people think of the end of December- they probably envision coats, gloves, hats, snow, and maybe even a fire in the fireplace.

However, it's been less coldly cozy here in Texas and more mild outside. I didn't even bother with a jacket today (12/30/2024). Here in the panhandle, the high is 72 degrees, according to Meterored weather.

That's nothing compared to parts of southern Texas that will likely run air conditioners today- McAllen has a high of nearly 90 degrees. San Antonio, Austin, and Houston all have highs in the mid-80s.

Unfortunately, this means an increased chance of fires today, so please refrain from popping any fireworks early- as the results could be devastating. From Texas Storm Chasers:

Please exercise caution, as there is a very high to critical risk of wildfires across the western half of Texas today.

Will Texas end the year warm as well?

Depends on where in Texas you live.

Tomorrow, New Year's Eve, McAllen will still be 84 degrees, but here in the panhandle, temps in the 50s will likely incite me to wear a couple of layers.

Texas Storm Chasers also indicated that our dry spell may come to an end this week, will rain possible near the coast starting on Wednesday:

 The next significant weather system is expected to move in on Sunday, bringing the potential for thunderstorms to the eastern half of Texas.

Is this just typical Texas weather?

There is a big debate about this on Texas Reddit, with many claiming December in Texas always goes this way, while others claim it is unusual.

According to Texas A&M University, 2022 was the hottest December in Texas for 130 years.

McAllen, with its near 90s today, has a historical average December temperature of 73 degrees, so perhaps this is an unusually hot year. However, it would take a lot more digging into the data to be sure.