Southern Skies Shine: Your December 13th Forecast Across the Sun Belt

As we approach the weekend on Friday, December 13, 2025, a generally pleasant and mild weather pattern is setting up across the vast Southern Zone of the United States. From the vibrant coasts of Florida to the plains of Oklahoma and the desert landscapes of New Mexico, residents and travelers alike can anticipate a day marked by abundant sunshine and comfortable temperatures, though some localized conditions will merit a closer look. This forecast offers a welcome respite for many, contrasting with the colder snaps often experienced this time of year in other parts of the nation. It's an ideal period for outdoor activities, holiday preparations, and enjoying the unique charm of the Southern states.

The image is a live image for the National Weather Service server. It gets updated on Real time.

Current Conditions & Overnight Trends: A Cool Start, Warm Promise

The early morning hours across the Southern Zone present a mosaic of conditions, setting the stage for a beautiful day. Many areas awoke to clear or mostly clear skies, allowing temperatures to dip overnight. In the northern reaches of the zone, cities like Nashville, Tennessee, experienced a chilly start at 33°F, with Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, not far behind at 36°F. These cooler temperatures, coupled with calm winds, underscore the seasonal shift, reminding us that while the South often enjoys milder winters, a crisp morning chill is still very much a part of the December experience.

Moving south and eastward, the overnight lows were more moderate. Birmingham, Alabama, saw temperatures around 43°F with partly cloudy skies, while Atlanta, Georgia, experienced a similar 43°F, but with some patchy fog, a common occurrence in the humid Southern mornings. Further west, Little Rock, Arkansas, was clear at 39°F, and Albuquerque, New Mexico, enjoyed a clear 39°F, promising a bright day ahead.

Along the Gulf Coast and into Florida, the overnight warmth was more pronounced. New Orleans, Louisiana, and Baton Rouge, Louisiana, both registered 61°F, with partly to mostly cloudy skies. Jackson, Mississippi, at 52°F, and Houston, Texas, at 65°F, reported "Areas of Fog," indicating reduced visibility in those regions. This localized fog, a frequent visitor to the Gulf Coast during periods of high humidity and light winds, can significantly impact early morning commutes and should be noted by travelers.

Florida's peninsula remained the warmest overnight. Jacksonville saw 47°F, while Orlando was 52°F. Tampa reported 55°F, and the tropical warmth of Miami stood out with a balmy 72°F, accompanied by a moderate 10 mph wind, a characteristic of its coastal exposure. These varied overnight conditions highlight the immense geographical diversity within the Southern Zone, from the cooler, inland valleys to the perpetually mild coastal plains.

Looking Ahead: The Day's Forecast - Sunshine Dominates, But Watch for Localized Rain

As the sun climbs higher on December 13th, the Southern Zone is largely set to bask in glorious sunshine. The vast majority of cities, from Albuquerque to Jacksonville, will transition from their morning conditions to "Sunny" or "Mostly Sunny" by the afternoon. This widespread clear weather is a boon for anyone planning outdoor activities, holiday shopping, or simply enjoying a walk in milder temperatures.

Daytime highs will be comfortably mild to warm across the region. Florida will once again lead the warmth, with Miami reaching 78°F, Tampa 77°F, and Orlando 75°F. Jacksonville will also enjoy a pleasant 72°F. Along the central Gulf Coast, New Orleans and Baton Rouge are both forecast to hit 72°F and 73°F respectively, under mostly sunny skies. Further inland, Birmingham, Alabama, and Atlanta, Georgia, will see very pleasant highs of 64°F and 65°F, making for an exceptionally comfortable December day.

The western and northern parts of the zone will be cooler but still mild for mid-December. Albuquerque, New Mexico, is expected to reach a delightful 63°F. Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, will see 51°F, and Nashville, Tennessee, 48°F, both under sunny skies. Little Rock, Arkansas, will be partly sunny with a high of 45°F, representing the cooler end of the spectrum for daytime highs within the zone.

However, two significant exceptions to the widespread clear weather are worth noting. Jackson, Mississippi, after its morning fog, has a "Slight Chance Light Rain" with a high of 67°F. This suggests that while much of the day will be dry, a brief shower cannot be entirely ruled out. More notably, Houston, Texas, which also started with "Areas of Fog," carries a "Chance Showers And Thunderstorms" into the afternoon, with a high of 73°F. Residents in Houston should remain vigilant for changing conditions and be prepared for potential rainfall and lightning, even if the chances are not exceedingly high. Dallas, Texas, will be mostly cloudy with a high of 58°F, indicating a slightly more overcast day than its eastern counterparts.

Winds across the zone will remain generally light, typically in the 0-6 mph range, which will contribute to the comfortable feel of the mild temperatures. Only Miami is expected to see slightly stronger winds, up to 13 mph, which is typical for its exposed coastal location and can make the air feel a bit cooler despite high temperatures.

Travel Impact & Advisories: Navigate with Awareness

For those planning travel across the Southern Zone on December 13th, the overall outlook is highly favorable. The widespread sunshine and mild temperatures will create excellent driving conditions for most of the day. However, specific localized conditions warrant attention, particularly during the early morning hours.

The primary concern for early morning travelers will be the "Areas of Fog" reported in Jackson, Mississippi, and Houston, Texas, as well as "Patchy Fog" in Atlanta, Georgia. Fog can drastically reduce visibility, making driving hazardous. Motorists in these areas should exercise extreme caution: slow down, increase following distance, use low-beam headlights, and avoid sudden braking. While fog typically dissipates as the sun rises and temperatures increase, its presence can cause delays and increase the risk of accidents if not approached with care.

For air travel, these fog conditions could lead to minor delays at regional airports in Jackson, Houston, and Atlanta during the morning. Passengers should check with their airlines for the latest updates. By late morning and afternoon, conditions are expected to clear significantly, improving visibility for both ground and air transportation.

The "Chance Showers And Thunderstorms" in Houston, Texas, and "Slight Chance Light Rain" in Jackson, Mississippi, during the afternoon could introduce localized slick roads and reduced visibility. While not widespread, travelers in these specific areas should be prepared for changing road conditions and potential hydroplaning. It's always advisable to carry an emergency kit in your vehicle, especially during long drives, and to keep abreast of the latest localized forecasts via radio or weather apps.

With generally light winds, crosswinds will not be a significant concern for high-profile vehicles, except possibly near the immediate coast in South Florida where winds are slightly higher. Overall, this Friday offers a conducive environment for holiday travel and weekend getaways, provided early morning fog advisories are heeded.

Agricultural Considerations: A Mixed Blessing for Southern Farmers

The mild December weather across the Southern Zone presents a mixed bag for the region's diverse agricultural sector. For many winter crops, such as cool-season vegetables, small grains like wheat, and cover crops, these above-average temperatures can be beneficial, promoting continued growth and development without the stress of early freezes. Farmers in Florida, the Gulf Coast, and the Deep South will likely appreciate the extended growing season and reduced heating costs for greenhouses or livestock facilities.

However, the lack of significant cold snaps could also have drawbacks. Some fruit trees, particularly peaches and other stone fruits, require a certain number of "chill hours" during winter dormancy to produce a robust crop in the spring. Prolonged mild periods could potentially reduce the yield or quality of these crops in the coming season. Additionally, warmer temperatures can sometimes lead to increased pest and disease pressure, as colder weather typically helps to naturally suppress these issues.

The localized "Areas of Fog" and "Patchy Fog" in Mississippi, Texas, and Georgia could contribute to higher humidity levels, which, while not immediately detrimental, can create conditions conducive to certain fungal diseases if persistent. The "Slight Chance Light Rain" in Jackson, MS, and "Chance Showers And Thunderstorms" in Houston, TX, offer some localized moisture, which is generally welcome, but heavy downpours or sustained wet conditions could hinder field work or contribute to soil saturation, especially in already damp areas.

Farmers in the cooler northern parts of the zone, such as Oklahoma and Tennessee, will find the relatively mild daytime highs beneficial for outdoor work and livestock management, even with chilly overnight lows. Protecting sensitive equipment and ensuring adequate water for livestock during these temperature swings remains important. Overall, while the forecast is largely favorable, diligent monitoring of specific crop needs and potential pest issues will be crucial for Southern agricultural producers.

Historical Context & Climate Insights: December in the Southern Zone

December in the Southern United States is a month of transition, often characterized by a gradual shift from autumn's lingering warmth to the more definitive chill of winter. However, the region's vast geographical expanse means "winter" can feel very different from one state to another. This forecast for December 13, 2025, with its widespread mild temperatures and mostly sunny skies, aligns with what might be considered a relatively pleasant, perhaps even slightly warmer-than-average, early to mid-December pattern for much of the zone, particularly the coastal and deep South areas.

Historically, while cold fronts are common, prolonged periods of deep freezes are less frequent in the southernmost states compared to the Midwest or Northeast. The influence of the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean typically moderates temperatures, especially along the immediate coastline. Inland areas, particularly those further north like Tennessee and Arkansas, are more susceptible to colder air masses descending from Canada.

The occurrence of morning fog, as seen in Jackson, Houston, and Atlanta, is also a classic December phenomenon in the South. High humidity, often from Gulf moisture, combined with cooler overnight temperatures and light winds, creates ideal conditions for radiation fog to form. This fog usually burns off by mid-morning as the sun gains strength, a pattern reflected in today's forecast.

Rainfall in December in the South is typically moderate, with a tendency for frontal systems to bring widespread showers. The current forecast, with only isolated chances of rain in Jackson and Houston, suggests that a strong, organized frontal system is not directly impacting the majority of the zone today, contributing to the overall fair weather. This can be influenced by larger climate patterns like the El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO), where an El Niño phase often brings wetter and cooler winters to the southern tier of the U.S., while La Niña often results in warmer and drier conditions. While the specific ENSO phase isn't provided, the forecast leans towards a milder, drier December day for many, which could be indicative of certain atmospheric setups.

Understanding these historical and climatic trends helps put the daily forecast into perspective, revealing that while each day is unique, it often fits within broader seasonal patterns that define the Southern climate.

Preparedness & Safety Tips: Enjoy the Mild Weather Responsibly

Even with a generally pleasant forecast, smart preparedness is always key. Here are some tips to help you make the most of Friday, December 13th, and stay safe:

Layer Up for Temperature Swings: With chilly mornings in some areas and warm afternoons, dressing in layers is crucial. This allows you to adjust your clothing throughout the day for maximum comfort, especially if you're traveling across different parts of the zone.
Drive Safely in Fog: If you're in areas experiencing morning fog (Jackson, Houston, Atlanta), remember to slow down, increase your following distance, and use your low-beam headlights. Avoid using high beams as they can reflect off the fog and worsen visibility.
Monitor Localized Rain: For those in Houston and Jackson, where there's a chance of rain or thunderstorms, keep an eye on local radar and weather alerts. If driving, be aware of slick roads and potential hydroplaning. Seek shelter indoors if thunderstorms develop.
Stay Hydrated: Even with cooler temperatures, physical activity under the sun can lead to dehydration. Carry water, especially if you're spending extended time outdoors.
Sun Protection: With widespread sunny skies, don't forget sun protection. Even in December, the Southern sun can be strong. Apply sunscreen, wear sunglasses, and consider a hat, especially during peak daylight hours.
Home Safety Checks: As temperatures fluctuate, ensure your heating and cooling systems are in good working order. Check smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors, especially if you're using alternative heating sources on cooler nights.
Check on Neighbors: While not extreme weather, always be mindful of vulnerable neighbors who might be more sensitive to temperature changes, particularly the elderly or those with health conditions.

In conclusion, Friday, December 13, 2025, promises to be a largely beautiful day across the Southern Zone, characterized by abundant sunshine and mild temperatures. While morning fog and isolated rain chances in specific locales warrant attention, the overall outlook is one of comfort and pleasant conditions, ideal for embracing the festive season. Stay informed with your local weather updates, and enjoy the Southern charm!

This post is created using the public data provided by the National Weather Service. Please check the Original source for more information.

USA Weather Updates