Dallas, Texas, February 3, 2026
North Texas is experiencing a warm spell with temperatures reaching the 60s and 70s, contrasting sharply with the severe winter conditions affecting much of the Southern and Eastern U.S. As Dallas enjoys clear skies and pleasant weather, regions from the Dakotas to northern Florida face a prolonged deep freeze, resulting in power outages and hazardous conditions. The recent Groundhog Day tradition predicted six more weeks of winter, which seems likely given the current weather patterns. Residents are encouraged to stay informed and support local businesses during this warm period.
Dallas Warms Up While the South Faces Deep Freeze
Dallas, Texas – North Texas is currently enjoying a warm spell, with temperatures reaching the 60s and 70s, marking a welcome change from the recent cold. This regional warmth stands in stark contrast to the deep freeze gripping much of the Southern and Eastern United States, where communities are grappling with severe winter conditions.
Regional Warm-Up
As of February 2, 2026, the Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW) International Airport recorded a pleasant high of 63°F (17°C) under clear skies, with a low of 36°F (2°C). The National Weather Service’s Fort Worth office has indicated that warmer conditions are expected to persist throughout the week, with highs projected to reach the 70s by Friday. Overnight temperatures will hover in the 30s and 40s, remaining well above freezing. On Tuesday, a slight chance of rain is on the horizon, primarily affecting regions east of Interstate 35, while the larger Dallas area will likely stay dry. Winds will remain relatively calm, ranging from 5 to 10 mph. An expected weak cold front on Tuesday night will bring gusty north winds, leading to a drop in nighttime temperatures into the 30s for Tuesday and Wednesday nights. Fortunately, a rebound to warmer weather is anticipated by the weekend, bringing back sunny skies and highs in the 70s.
Ongoing Southern Cold Snap
In sharp contrast, a prolonged deep freeze continues to affect various parts of the Southern and Eastern U.S., stretching from the Dakotas down to northern Florida. Notably, North Carolina’s Outer Banks saw four unoccupied homes succumb to the ocean’s reach after a powerful bomb cyclone struck the coastline. The Southeastern region has faced rare instances of snow and extreme cold, with agricultural sectors, particularly those growing ferns, experiencing disruptions as Valentine’s Day shipments are threatened. Adding to the challenge, over 70,000 homes and businesses in Tennessee and Mississippi are enduring power outages due to earlier storms, with Nashville particularly affected. Many residents find themselves relying on blankets and propane grills as they navigate over a week without power. Meanwhile, the Nashville Electric Service is facing scrutiny, resulting in a performance review ordered by the mayor. This severe weather has claimed over 110 lives nationwide, including 13 fatalities due to hypothermia in New York City. Reports of cold-stunned iguanas in Florida highlight the unusual impact of this cold snap, with continued snowfall expected for the Midwest and Northeast.
Background Context
The annual Groundhog Day tradition, celebrated on February 2, saw Punxsutawney Phil, the famous groundhog, glimpse his shadow, forecasting six more weeks of winter. This charming event, held at Gobbler’s Knob, reflects historical European farming rituals. Despite its popularity, it is important to note that Phil’s weather predictions have an accuracy rate of only about 40%.
Conclusion
While North Texas basks in unseasonably warm weather this week, the Southern and Eastern parts of the U.S. continue to grapple with extreme cold. In light of these contrasting weather conditions, residents are encouraged to stay informed on weather updates and take necessary precautions during this challenging time. Additionally, as the local economy thrives in warmer temperatures, supporting Dallas small businesses during this season can promote resilience and growth in our community.
Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Current Weather in Dallas | High of 63°F (17°C) on February 2, 2026, with clear skies and a low of 36°F (2°C). Warm conditions expected to continue throughout the week, with highs reaching the 70s by Friday. Overnight lows in the 30s and 40s. Slight chance of rain on Tuesday, primarily east of Interstate 35. Winds light, 5-10 mph. Weak cold front expected Tuesday night, bringing gusty north winds and dropping overnight lows into the 30s on Tuesday and Wednesday nights. Conditions expected to warm up again by the weekend, with highs in the 70s and sunny skies. |
| Southern U.S. Cold Snap | Prolonged deep freeze continues to affect areas from the Dakotas to northern Florida. In North Carolina’s Outer Banks, four unoccupied homes collapsed into the ocean after a powerful bomb cyclone impacted the coast. The Southeast, including parts of Florida, experienced rare snow and extreme cold, affecting agriculture—particularly fern growers whose Valentine’s Day shipments were jeopardized. In Tennessee and Mississippi, over 70,000 homes and businesses endured extended power outages following earlier storms, with Nashville especially hard-hit. Many residents have relied on blankets and propane grills to survive over a week without power. The Nashville Electric Service came under scrutiny, prompting the mayor to order a performance review. The ongoing extreme weather has claimed over 110 lives, many due to hypothermia, including 13 deaths in New York City. Cold-stunned iguanas were reported in Florida, and more snow was expected across parts of the Midwest and Northeast. Officials and utilities warned that cleanup and restoration efforts would continue amid ongoing sub-zero temperatures. |
| Groundhog Day Tradition | Punxsutawney Phil, the famed groundhog from Pennsylvania, saw his shadow on February 2, 2026, predicting six more weeks of winter. This event, held at Gobbler’s Knob, has roots in European farming rituals and has gained popularity over the years. Despite the tradition, meteorologists note that Phil’s forecasts are only about 40% accurate. |
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Author: STAFF HERE DALLAS WRITER
The DALLAS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREDallas.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Dallas, Dallas County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the State Fair of Texas, Deep Ellum Arts Festival, and Dallas International Film Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Dallas Regional Chamber and United Way of Metropolitan Dallas, plus leading businesses in telecommunications, aviation, and semiconductors that power the local economy such as AT&T, Southwest Airlines, and Texas Instruments. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HERECollegeStation.com, HEREHouston.com, and HERESanAntonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
