Austin weather: Cold front brings 25 mph gusts and rain overnight before Election Day
A cold front will push through Austin tonight with rain and wind gusts up to 25 mph, according to the National Weather Service and local forecasts.
A cold front will push through Austin tonight with rain and wind gusts up to 25 mph, according to the National Weather Service and local forecasts.
Key numbers
| Stat | Figure | Date | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wind gusts | 25 mph | Nov 2–3, 2026 | National Weather Service |
| Rain totals | under ½ inch | Nov 2–3, 2026 | FOX 7 Austin |
| Tuesday high | 77°F | Nov 3, 2026 | FOX 7 Austin |
| Monday high | 86°F | Nov 2, 2026 | The Weather Channel |
What happened
A warm, humid Monday (86°F) will give way to rain and storms overnight as a cold front moves through, bringing gusts up to 25 mph and a 80% chance of showers and thunderstorms by midnight. The Austin metro will see rain between 3 a.m. and 6 a.m. Tuesday, with the Hill Country hit first from midnight to 3 a.m.
The front will pass by Tuesday morning, shifting winds to the northwest and dropping highs to 77°F—cooler than the 85°F expected Monday afternoon.
Who is affected
Residents with late-night plans should monitor alerts, as storms could become strong with damaging wind gusts and large hail, particularly north and west of Interstate 35. Voters in eastern counties may see rain when polls open at 7 a.m. Tuesday, though it should clear quickly.
Timeline of Austin weather
- Monday, Nov 2: Fog and low clouds in the morning (68°F), clearing to sunny skies by noon.
- Monday night: Rain and storms arrive after midnight, with an 80% chance of precipitation and gusts up to 25 mph.
- Winds shift to northwest at 10–15 mph.
- Tuesday night: Clear skies and a low of 55°F.
- Wednesday–Sunday: Sunny and mild, with highs in the low to mid-70s.
What to do next
Check the FOX 7 WAPP app for real-time radar and alerts, and avoid outdoor plans late Monday night if possible. Voters in eastern counties may want to cast ballots in the afternoon to avoid lingering rain.
What we know and don’t know
We know the cold front will bring rain and gusty winds overnight, but the exact timing of severe storms remains uncertain. The National Weather Service will continue monitoring for potential strong storms with damaging winds.
We don’t yet know if any storms will produce tornadoes, though the risk is low. The front is expected to pass quickly, leaving mostly dry conditions for the rest of the week.
Why it matters
The rain will help Central Texas’ rainfall deficit of 2–3 inches, though totals will stay below ½ inch due to the system’s quick movement. Cooler, drier air behind the front will provide relief from humidity but may feel chilly for early November.
Key takeaways
- Rain and storms will move through Austin overnight, with gusts up to 25 mph.
- Election Day (Nov 3) will start dry but may see lingering rain in eastern counties early.
- Temperatures will drop to 77°F Tuesday, with cooler mornings in the 50s for the rest of the week.
- Check alerts for severe weather updates, especially if outdoors late Monday night.
- Voters in eastern counties may prefer to cast ballots in the afternoon.
Frequently asked questions
Will Austin see severe storms?
Storms are likely overnight, with the greatest risk for damaging winds and large hail north and west of I-35. The threat of tornadoes is low.
How much rain will Austin get?
Rain totals will stay under ½ inch due to the system’s quick movement, though localized areas could see slightly more.
What should voters do if rain arrives?
Voters in eastern counties may want to wait until the afternoon to avoid rain at polling locations, as the front should pass by noon.
Will the cold front bring drought relief?
Yes, but only slightly. The rain will help Central Texas’ 2–3 inch deficit, though totals will be modest due to the system’s speed.
When will temperatures return to normal?
Normal highs for early November are in the mid-70s, and Austin will see those temperatures by Tuesday, with cooler mornings in the 50s.
Are there any severe weather alerts in effect?
No tornado watches or warnings are currently in effect for Austin, but residents should monitor alerts for updates on severe storms overnight.
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Sources
- Austin weather: Cold front coming to town, bringing rain chances, cooling trend — fox7austin.com, 2026-11-02
- How cool will Austin get after next week’s cold front? Here's the latest forecast — statesman.com, 2026-11-01
- From Fog to Fury: Hot Austin Day Sets Stage for Wild Overnight Storms — hoodline.com, 2026-11-02
- Austin Bergstrom International Airport Weather — weather.com
- Dallas weather: Storms move across North Texas overnight before 2026 elections — fox4news.com, 2026-11-02
- Risk for severe storms tonight in eastern New Mexico, Texas Panhandle — abc7amarillo.com, 2026-11-01