Southern US Weather: Clear Skies, Crisp Air & Cold Mornings Ahead

As we transition from the evening of December 10th into the morning of December 11th, 2025, the Southern United States is experiencing a distinct shift towards classic crisp winter weather. A broad swath of the region, from the sunny beaches of Florida to the high plains of New Mexico, will be under mostly clear to clear skies. While this promises excellent visibility and beautiful starry nights, it also paves the way for significantly cooler, even chilly, morning temperatures across many areas. Residents and travelers alike should prepare for a noticeable drop in mercury, especially as the sun rises tomorrow.

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

Current Conditions: A Clear, Cool December Night (December 10th)

Tonight, December 10th, the Southern Zone presents a varied but generally tranquil weather picture. Most areas are enjoying clear or mostly clear skies, allowing for excellent stargazing opportunities but also facilitating radiational cooling, which means temperatures will dip significantly overnight. Winds are generally light to moderate, contributing to the crisp feel of the air.

Florida Peninsula: The Sunshine State remains relatively mild compared to its northern neighbors. Miami, FL, is seeing a comfortable 72°F with a gentle 9 mph wind under mostly clear skies. Tampa, FL, is cooler at 59°F with a light 2 mph breeze and mostly clear conditions. Orlando, FL, drops to 54°F with 5 mph winds, offering a clear night. Further north, Jacksonville, FL, is notably cooler at 50°F with 9 mph winds and clear skies. These temperatures are quite pleasant for December evenings in Florida, perfect for outdoor dining or evening strolls, though a light jacket would be wise in the northern parts of the state.
Central Gulf Coast & Lower Mississippi Valley: Moving west, the air becomes distinctly cooler. New Orleans, LA, is at 59°F with 5 mph winds and mostly clear skies, providing a refreshing evening. Baton Rouge, LA, is slightly cooler at 54°F with a similar 5 mph breeze under mostly clear conditions. Jackson, MS, dips to 46°F with 5 mph winds and mostly clear skies, signaling a true autumn chill. Houston, TX, enjoys clear skies at 57°F with a moderate 10 mph wind, making for a brisk night in the city.
Mid-South & Southeastern Highlands: This sub-region is experiencing the coldest temperatures tonight. Atlanta, GA, is at 47°F with a noticeable 15 mph wind under partly cloudy skies, indicating a colder air mass is firmly in place. Birmingham, AL, reports 44°F with 10 mph winds and mostly clear conditions, setting the stage for a frosty morning. Little Rock, AR, is at 40°F with light 5 mph winds and mostly clear skies, nearing the freezing mark. Nashville, TN, is the coldest of the major cities in this zone tonight, registering a chilly 37°F with 10 mph winds under mostly cloudy skies, making it feel quite wintry.
Texas & Oklahoma Panhandle: Further west, clear skies prevail. Dallas, TX, is at 49°F with a light 5 mph wind and clear conditions. Oklahoma City, OK, is at 44°F with a gentle 3 mph breeze under mostly clear skies. These cities are experiencing a cool but stable night.
Southwest Fringe (Albuquerque): Albuquerque, NM, sits at 45°F with a light 5 mph wind under clear skies, a typical cool desert evening.

Looking Ahead: Sunny and Colder Mornings (December 11th)

Tomorrow, December 11th, promises widespread sunny skies across the Southern Zone, a beautiful backdrop for a mid-December day. However, these clear skies will also mean significantly colder starts to the day for many, particularly in the northern and central parts of the region. Temperatures will struggle to climb much above the 40s and 50s for most, with some areas remaining quite chilly.

Florida Peninsula: Florida will once again enjoy the warmest conditions, albeit cooler than today. Miami, FL, will reach 68°F with 10 mph winds under mostly sunny skies, a pleasant winter day. Tampa, FL, will see 64°F with 8 mph winds and full sunshine. Orlando, FL, will be sunny with temperatures hitting 60°F and 10 mph winds. Jacksonville, FL, will be sunny but cooler at 52°F with 10 mph winds. While comfortable, these temperatures are a clear signal that winter has arrived, even in the Sunshine State.
Central Gulf Coast & Lower Mississippi Valley: A distinct chill will greet residents here. New Orleans, LA, will be sunny with a high of 50°F and light 5 mph winds. Baton Rouge, LA, will also be sunny, reaching 47°F with 5 mph winds. Houston, TX, will see sunny skies and 52°F with light 5 mph winds. Jackson, MS, will be sunny but quite cool at 43°F with virtually no wind, making for a calm but cold morning.
Mid-South & Southeastern Highlands: This region will experience the coldest morning temperatures. Atlanta, GA, will be sunny but struggle to reach 36°F with 10 mph winds, a very cold start. Birmingham, AL, will also be sunny, hitting 37°F with 5 mph winds, just above freezing. Little Rock, AR, will be sunny with a high of 40°F and 5 mph winds. Nashville, TN, will remain the coldest, with mostly sunny skies and a high of only 33°F with 5 mph winds, ensuring a frosty start to the day.
Texas & Oklahoma Panhandle: Dallas, TX, will be sunny with a high of 45°F and 5 mph winds. Oklahoma City, OK, will also be sunny, reaching 46°F but with a brisk 15 mph wind, making it feel colder than the thermometer indicates.
Southwest Fringe (Albuquerque): Albuquerque, NM, will start cold at 37°F with light 5 mph winds under sunny skies, a typical crisp high desert winter morning.

Regional Overview and Climate Context: Understanding December in the South

This forecast for December 10th and 11th, 2025, aligns well with what one might expect during a typical Southern winter, though with a particular emphasis on clear, calm conditions. December in the Southern United States is a transitional month. While it rarely sees the prolonged deep freezes common further north, cold snaps are a regular feature. Average temperatures range widely, from the comfortable 60s in South Florida to the chilly 30s and 40s in the northern reaches of Tennessee and Arkansas. What we are observing now is a classic example of radiational cooling. With clear skies and light winds overnight, the earth's surface rapidly loses heat into space, leading to significant temperature drops, especially in areas where cloud cover is absent. This phenomenon is particularly effective in late fall and early winter when the sun's angle is low, and daylight hours are shorter.

Historically, the South has experienced a spectrum of December weather. Some years bring mild, almost spring-like conditions, while others see severe cold fronts, ice storms, or even rare snowfall events. This particular pattern of clear, crisp nights followed by sunny, cool days is often welcomed as a refreshing change, offering a break from humidity and providing ideal conditions for outdoor activities, provided one is dressed appropriately. The absence of significant weather alerts across the entire zone further underscores the stable atmospheric conditions currently dominating the region. This stability is often a precursor to a period of settled weather, allowing for predictable daily routines without the threat of disruptive storms.

Agricultural Impact: Protecting Southern Crops and Livestock

The clear skies and dropping temperatures, particularly the near-freezing lows in the Mid-South and parts of Texas, carry important implications for the agricultural sector across the Southern Zone. While many winter crops are dormant or hardy enough to withstand these temperatures, specific considerations are crucial.

Florida Citrus and Tender Crops: In Florida, citrus growers are vigilant. While temperatures in Miami and Tampa remain well above freezing, areas further north like Jacksonville dipping to 50°F overnight, and Orlando to 54°F, mean that sensitive plants outside of the immediate coastal influence could feel the chill. Young citrus trees, strawberries, and other tender cool-season vegetables might require light frost protection if temperatures were to dip further, though this forecast appears benign for most established crops.
Winter Wheat and Pastures: In states like Oklahoma, Texas, Arkansas, and parts of Tennessee, winter wheat is a significant crop. The forecasted lows in the 30s and 40s are generally beneficial for winter wheat, helping it to vernalize and establish a strong root system. However, prolonged periods below freezing could stress the plants. For livestock, particularly cattle, the colder temperatures mean increased energy expenditure to stay warm. Farmers will need to ensure adequate feed and access to unfrozen water, especially in areas like Nashville (33°F) and Birmingham (37°F), where water troughs could freeze overnight. Providing windbreaks and shelter is also important.
Pecans and Other Specialty Crops: The South is also known for its pecan production. These trees are generally hardy, but significant temperature fluctuations can impact dormant buds. For other specialty crops and nurseries, particularly those with plants grown in containers, the cold ground temperatures could be a concern, necessitating protective measures such as covering or moving plants indoors.
Soil Conditions: The dry and clear conditions will lead to cooler soil temperatures, which is normal for this time of year. For any late-season planting or early spring preparations, understanding soil temperature is key.

Travel Advisories and Tips: Navigating the Southern Winter Air

With clear skies dominating the forecast for December 10th and 11th, travel across the Southern Zone should be relatively straightforward. However, the dropping temperatures and specific regional conditions warrant a few advisories and tips to ensure a safe and comfortable journey.

Potential for Black Ice: In the northern reaches of the Southern Zone, specifically around Nashville, TN, Little Rock, AR, Birmingham, AL, Atlanta, GA, and Oklahoma City, OK, where overnight lows are dipping to or below freezing, there is a remote possibility of black ice forming on elevated surfaces like bridges and overpasses, especially if any residual moisture is present. While no precipitation is forecast, vigilance is key during early morning commutes. Drivers should exercise extreme caution in these areas, reducing speed and avoiding sudden braking or steering movements.
Morning Fog: Despite the clear skies, localized patches of dense fog can develop in low-lying areas, river valleys, and near bodies of water, particularly as temperatures drop and moisture condenses. This is a common phenomenon in the South during cooler months. If you encounter fog, slow down, use your low-beam headlights, and increase your following distance.
Vehicle Preparedness: As temperatures fluctuate, it's a good practice to check your vehicle's tire pressure, as colder air causes pressure to drop. Ensure your windshield wiper fluid reservoir is full and contains an appropriate winter mixture to prevent freezing. A well-maintained battery is also crucial in colder weather.
Personal Comfort: For those traveling, remember to dress in layers. While days will be sunny, the mornings will be quite cool, and temperatures can vary significantly from dawn to midday. Sunglasses will be beneficial for glare from the low winter sun.

Health and Safety Recommendations: Staying Warm and Well

The forecasted clear and cool weather, while beautiful, necessitates attention to personal health and home safety. Taking proactive steps can ensure everyone stays warm, safe, and healthy as winter truly settles in.

Layer Up: For anyone spending time outdoors, especially during the colder mornings, layering clothing is essential. Multiple thin layers trap air more effectively than a single thick layer, providing better insulation. Don't forget hats, gloves, and scarves, particularly for children and the elderly.
Stay Hydrated: It's easy to forget to drink enough water in colder weather, but hydration is just as important as in summer. Carry a water bottle, especially if engaging in outdoor activities.
Protect Pipes: In areas where temperatures are expected to drop to or below freezing (Nashville, Birmingham, Little Rock, Atlanta, Dallas, Oklahoma City, Albuquerque), exposed pipes are at risk of freezing and bursting. Take precautions such as insulating outdoor pipes, disconnecting garden hoses, and allowing indoor faucets to drip slightly overnight to relieve pressure. Opening cabinet doors under sinks can also help warmer air circulate around plumbing.
Pet Safety: Our furry friends are susceptible to cold too. Bring pets indoors, especially overnight. If they must be outside, ensure they have adequate shelter, food, and unfrozen water.
Check on Vulnerable Neighbors: Take a moment to check on elderly neighbors, those with chronic illnesses, or anyone who might be vulnerable to the cold. Offer assistance with heating, groceries, or simply a warm conversation.
Heating Safety: As heating systems work harder, ensure your furnace is inspected regularly and that carbon monoxide detectors are functioning correctly. Never use ovens or outdoor grills as indoor heating sources, as this poses a serious risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. Keep flammable materials away from heaters and fireplaces.

Preparing for the Days Ahead: Long-Term Outlook

While this forecast focuses on December 10th and 11th, the clear and stable pattern suggests a generally calm period for the Southern Zone. This is an opportune time to ensure your home and vehicle are prepared for the remainder of the winter season. Review your emergency kits, check insulation around windows and doors, and keep an eye on local forecasts for any shifts in the pattern. Even without immediate threats, being prepared for colder temperatures and potential winter weather is always a wise strategy. Enjoy the crisp, clear days ahead, but do so with an awareness of the changing seasonal conditions.

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