Southern Zone Weather Deep Dive: Unpacking Current Conditions and Local Forecasts (Dec 23-24, 2025)

Welcome to our in-depth meteorological review for the Southern Zone, covering the period from late afternoon on December 23rd through the early hours of December 24th, 2025. This comprehensive analysis will explore the nuanced weather patterns influencing a wide array of key cities, from the bustling urban centers of Georgia and Florida to the vast stretches of Texas and the heartland states of Alabama, Tennessee, Oklahoma, and Kentucky. As the holiday season approaches, understanding the atmospheric conditions becomes paramount for travel plans, outdoor activities, and general preparedness. Our data indicates a generally mild and settled pattern across much of the region, though localized phenomena such as increasing humidity, potential for fog, and gentle breezes will define the specific experiences of each metropolitan area. We'll delve into temperature trajectories, precipitation probabilities, wind dynamics, and the subtle interplay of dew point and relative humidity that often dictates the comfort and visibility conditions. From the warm, humid air blanketing coastal Florida to the crisp, clear nights in parts of Georgia, and the developing fog in Texas, the Southern Zone presents a diverse atmospheric canvas. This report aims to equip residents and travelers alike with the detailed insights needed to navigate the immediate weather landscape, ensuring both safety and enjoyment during this late December period. We will also cast our gaze beyond these listed cities to provide a snapshot of regional weather news, highlighting potential impacts and conditions in neighboring areas.

Atlanta, GA In-Depth Forecast

Atlanta, Georgia, is experiencing a tranquil transition from a mild late afternoon into a clear and calm night. Starting at 4:00 PM EST on December 23rd, the city enjoys a comfortable 68°F under sunny skies with a gentle 5 mph wind from the West. This pleasant weather continues into the early evening, with temperatures gradually dipping to 67°F by 5:00 PM, maintaining the sunny disposition and becoming almost entirely still with 0 mph winds. As the sun sets and evening progresses, the forecast shifts to 'Mostly Clear' conditions. By 6:00 PM, the temperature is expected to be 63°F, further cooling to 60°F by 7:00 PM, and 56°F by 8:00 PM. The wind remains negligible throughout these evening hours, contributing to a serene atmosphere. The dew point, initially around 52°F (11.11°C), steadily rises in relation to the decreasing air temperature, causing the relative humidity to climb from 58% in the late afternoon to a significant 90% by 8:00 PM. This trend of increasing humidity as temperatures fall is a classic indicator of potential fog or mist development in the very late night or early morning hours, although the short forecast remains 'Mostly Clear' for now, suggesting any fog would be localized or very light.

Moving into the deeper night, the cooling trend persists. By 9:00 PM, Atlanta anticipates 55°F, dropping further to 54°F by 10:00 PM and holding steady at 54°F through 11:00 PM. The relative humidity reaches into the mid-90s, nearing saturation, with dew points hovering around 53°F (11.67°C). The probability of precipitation remains at a reassuring 0% throughout this period, only showing a slight uptick to 1% by 1:00 AM on December 24th, indicating an extremely low chance of any moisture. As we approach the early morning hours of Wednesday, December 24th, temperatures continue their gentle descent, reaching 53°F by 12:00 AM, and holding at 53°F by 1:00 AM. The final hours of our forecast window, from 2:00 AM to 4:00 AM, show temperatures settling at 52°F. The relative humidity is expected to remain very high, at 99-100%, with dew points around 52°F (11.11°C). This combination of low temperatures and near-saturation humidity reinforces the possibility of some patchy fog or ground mist forming as the night progresses, particularly in low-lying areas or near bodies of water, even if not explicitly stated in the 'short forecast'. Residents should be aware of potentially reduced visibility for early morning commutes. Overall, Atlanta is set for a calm, cool, and progressively humid night with no significant weather disruptions expected.

For the most detailed, up-to-the-minute forecast, visit the official National Weather Service source: NWS Forecast for Atlanta, GA.

Miami, FL In-Depth Forecast

Miami, Florida, is poised for a characteristically warm and humid late December evening, transitioning from a sunny afternoon into a mostly clear night. The forecast begins at 4:00 PM EST on December 23rd with a balmy 79°F, clear skies, and a light breeze from the East at 9 mph. The probability of precipitation is a minimal 5%, suggesting isolated, if any, showers. As the afternoon wanes into early evening, the temperature experiences a slight drop to 77°F by 5:00 PM, with winds easing to 8 mph from the East, and the skies remaining sunny. The chance of rain further decreases to 3%. The dew point throughout this initial period remains quite high, around 65°F (18.33°C), contributing to a relative humidity of 62-64%, which is typical for South Florida's tropical climate.

As night descends upon Miami, the forecast shifts to 'Mostly Clear' conditions. By 6:00 PM, the temperature is expected to be 74°F, with winds at 6 mph from the East. The dew point remains high at 65°F (18.33°C), pushing the relative humidity up to 74%. This trend of increasing humidity continues as temperatures cool further. By 7:00 PM, the temperature drops to 70°F, with a light 6 mph wind from the Northeast, and the humidity climbs to 81%. This pattern persists through 8:00 PM and 9:00 PM, with temperatures at 69°F and 68°F respectively, and relative humidity in the low to mid-80s. The probability of precipitation remains very low, at 1%, indicating a dry night ahead for most. The persistent easterly wind flow is a common feature for Miami, often bringing in moist air from the Atlantic, which contributes to the higher humidity levels even on clear nights.

Entering the deeper overnight hours, from 10:00 PM on December 23rd to 3:00 AM on December 24th, Miami will continue to experience mild and humid conditions. Temperatures will gradually fall from 66°F at 10:00 PM to 62°F by 3:00 AM. Throughout this period, the wind remains light, generally 3 mph from the Northeast. The dew point stays elevated, around 61-63°F (16.11-17.22°C), resulting in relative humidity consistently in the high 80s and low 90s, peaking at 93%. Despite the high humidity, the 'short forecast' remains 'Mostly Clear', and the probability of precipitation holds at a mere 1%. This suggests that while the air will feel heavy with moisture, widespread fog or rain is not anticipated. However, localized patches of ground fog could form in susceptible areas, especially closer to dawn, given the near-saturation conditions. For residents, this means a warm and muggy night, ideal for those who enjoy mild winter evenings, but perhaps less comfortable for those sensitive to humidity. No significant weather hazards are present, allowing for undisturbed evening and overnight activities.

For the most detailed, up-to-the-minute forecast, visit the official National Weather Service source: NWS Forecast for Miami, FL.

Tampa, FL In-Depth Forecast

Tampa, Florida, is set for a comfortably warm and breezy evening, transitioning from a sunny late afternoon into a clear night. The forecast for December 23rd kicks off at 4:00 PM EST with a pleasant 75°F under sunny skies, accompanied by a noticeable 10 mph wind from the North-Northeast. There's a 0% chance of precipitation, promising a dry start. This delightful weather continues through 5:00 PM, with temperatures holding steady at 75°F and winds picking up slightly to 12 mph from the North-Northeast, maintaining the sunny disposition. The dew point, around 64°F (17.78°C), keeps the relative humidity at a comfortable 69%, making for a very pleasant outdoor environment.

As twilight descends, the 'short forecast' for Tampa shifts to 'Mostly Clear' conditions. By 6:00 PM, the temperature is expected to be 73°F, with winds remaining brisk at 12 mph from the Northeast. The relative humidity increases slightly to 72% as the air cools, with the dew point at 63°F (17.22°C). This trend of cooling temperatures and rising humidity continues through 7:00 PM and 8:00 PM, with temperatures at 72°F and 71°F respectively. Winds remain steady at 12 mph, primarily from the North-Northeast and Northeast. Relative humidity climbs into the mid-70s, but still well below saturation, implying clear visibility. The absence of any precipitation probability is a consistent feature, ensuring a dry evening for all. The persistent northerly component in the wind suggests a slightly drier air mass than what Miami is experiencing, contributing to less muggy conditions despite the warm temperatures.

Moving into the late evening and early morning hours of December 24th, Tampa anticipates even clearer skies, with the 'short forecast' transitioning to 'Clear' from 9:00 PM onwards. Temperatures will continue their gradual descent, reaching 70°F by 9:00 PM, then 69°F by 10:00 PM, and settling at 65°F by 3:00 AM. The winds remain consistent, generally 9-12 mph from the East-Northeast and East, providing a steady, refreshing breeze. The dew point gradually lowers to around 60°F (15.56°C) by 3:00 AM, while the relative humidity slowly increases into the low to mid-80s, peaking at 86% by 2:00 AM. Even at these higher humidity levels, the 'Clear' forecast suggests excellent visibility and no expectation of fog, thanks to the continued light winds and temperatures not quite reaching the dew point. This dry, clear, and breezy night makes for ideal conditions for star-gazing or enjoying the mild Florida winter outdoors. No weather advisories or concerns are indicated, promising an undisturbed night across the Tampa Bay area.

For the most detailed, up-to-the-minute forecast, visit the official National Weather Service source: NWS Forecast for Tampa, FL.

Birmingham, AL In-Depth Forecast

Birmingham, Alabama, is set for a pleasant late afternoon transitioning into a clear and calm night, though with increasing humidity that could lead to patchy fog by dawn. Beginning at 3:00 PM CST on December 23rd, the city experiences a warm 71°F under sunny skies, with a light 5 mph wind from the Southwest. The probability of precipitation is a flat 0%, indicating dry conditions. This sunny and mild weather continues through 4:00 PM and 5:00 PM, with temperatures gently decreasing to 70°F and then 68°F, while the southwest wind holds steady at 5 mph. The dew point, initially around 54°F (12.22°C), contributes to a relative humidity of 55-63%, making for comfortable conditions during the daytime hours. The slight increase in humidity reflects the typical diurnal cycle as temperatures begin to fall towards evening.

As the sun dips below the horizon, Birmingham transitions into a 'Mostly Clear' night. By 6:00 PM, the temperature is expected to be 65°F, with the wind becoming completely still (0 mph). This calm air, combined with dropping temperatures, allows humidity to rise more effectively. The dew point, around 55°F (12.78°C), causes the relative humidity to jump to 70%. This trend intensifies through 7:00 PM and 8:00 PM, with temperatures reaching 62°F and 60°F respectively. The relative humidity soars to 78% and then 84% as the air cools closer to its saturation point. The complete lack of wind in these evening hours further enhances the potential for moisture to accumulate near the surface, setting the stage for potential fog formation later in the night. The forecast consistently shows 0% probability of precipitation, assuring a dry night.

In the deeper overnight hours, from 9:00 PM on December 23rd to 2:00 AM on December 24th, Birmingham will continue to experience cooling temperatures and very high humidity. Temperatures are predicted to fall from 59°F at 9:00 PM to 57°F by 12:00 AM, and remain at 57°F through 2:00 AM. Throughout this period, the wind remains absent (0 mph), maintaining the calm conditions. The dew point hovers around 55-56°F (12.78-13.33°C), pushing the relative humidity into the low to mid-90s, peaking at 93%. The 'short forecast' generally remains 'Mostly Clear' or 'Partly Cloudy' (by 1:00 AM), transitioning to 'Mostly Cloudy' by 2:00 AM, which aligns with the very high humidity suggesting increased cloud cover or fog. Given the near-saturation conditions (relative humidity at 93%) and absent winds, there is a strong likelihood of patchy to widespread fog developing in the Birmingham metro area and surrounding low-lying regions during these late night and early morning hours. Drivers should exercise caution and be prepared for reduced visibility, especially between 12:00 AM and 3:00 AM on Wednesday. Despite the moisture, no actual rainfall is expected, making it a dry but potentially foggy start to the holiday eve.

For the most detailed, up-to-the-minute forecast, visit the official National Weather Service source: NWS Forecast for Birmingham, AL.

Houston, TX In-Depth Forecast

Houston, Texas, is bracing for a warm and exceptionally humid evening, with the primary weather concern being the development of widespread fog. The forecast begins at 3:00 PM CST on December 23rd with a warm 74°F under 'Patchy Fog', accompanied by a 10 mph wind from the Southeast. The relative humidity is already very high at 84%, with a dew point of 69°F (20.56°C). By 4:00 PM, the temperature slightly drops to 73°F, and the 'short forecast' changes to 'Mostly Sunny', but the probability of precipitation remains low at 1%. The humidity continues to climb to 88%. As the afternoon progresses to 5:00 PM, the temperature is 71°F under 'Partly Sunny' skies, with winds easing to 5 mph from the Southeast, and humidity reaching 90%. The persistent southerly flow brings abundant moisture from the Gulf of Mexico, which is the root cause of the high humidity and fog potential.

As night falls, the conditions for fog become even more favorable. From 6:00 PM onwards, the 'short forecast' for Houston consistently features 'Patchy Fog' or 'Areas Of Fog', escalating to 'Widespread Fog' by 11:00 PM. Temperatures will gradually cool from 68°F at 6:00 PM to 65°F by 10:00 PM, and then remain around 65-66°F into the early morning hours of December 24th. The winds remain light, generally 5 mph from the East or Southeast, which is conducive to fog formation as it prevents rapid mixing of air. The most striking feature of the overnight forecast is the relative humidity, which reaches 97% by 6:00 PM and then remains at a saturated 100% from 7:00 PM through the end of our forecast window at 3:00 AM on December 24th. This indicates that the air will be completely saturated with moisture, creating dense fog conditions. The dew point remains consistently high, around 65-66°F (18.33-20.56°C), staying very close to the actual air temperature, which is the perfect recipe for fog. The probability of precipitation, though low (1-3%), suggests that some light drizzle or mist might accompany the dense fog, further reducing visibility.

The widespread fog throughout the night and into the early morning hours of December 24th will significantly impact travel and outdoor activities in the Houston metropolitan area. Drivers are strongly advised to exercise extreme caution, reduce speeds, use low-beam headlights, and allow for extra travel time. Visibility could be severely limited, dropping to a quarter-mile or less in many areas. Air travel might also experience delays due to low visibility at Houston's airports. Residents should be prepared for a damp, muggy, and visually challenging night. The combination of high humidity, light winds, and cooling temperatures creates an ideal environment for persistent and dense fog. This is a classic late-season weather pattern for the Texas Gulf Coast, emphasizing the region's strong maritime influence. Staying informed through local weather alerts will be crucial for those in and around Houston during this period.

For the most detailed, up-to-the-minute forecast, visit the official National Weather Service source: NWS Forecast for Houston, TX.

San Antonio, TX In-Depth Forecast

San Antonio, Texas, is set for a warm and increasingly humid evening, transitioning from a partly sunny afternoon into a partly cloudy night with a developing chance of patchy fog. The forecast begins at 3:00 PM CST on December 23rd with a very warm 77°F under 'Partly Sunny' skies, accompanied by a 10 mph wind from the South-Southeast. There's a 0% chance of precipitation, ensuring dry conditions for the late afternoon. The warmth continues, peaking at 78°F by 4:00 PM under 'Sunny' skies, with winds remaining at 10 mph from the South-Southeast. By 5:00 PM, the temperature is 77°F under 'Mostly Sunny' conditions, with winds easing to 5 mph from the Southeast. The dew point remains high, around 66-67°F (18.89-19.44°C), contributing to a relative humidity of 69%, which is already quite moist for this time of year.

As night falls over San Antonio, the 'short forecast' shifts to 'Partly Cloudy' conditions. By 6:00 PM, the temperature is expected to be 75°F, with a light 5 mph wind from the Southeast. The probability of precipitation introduces a slight chance, rising to 2%. The dew point holds steady around 65-66°F (18.33-18.89°C), and the relative humidity climbs to 71%. This trend of increasing humidity with falling temperatures persists throughout the evening. By 7:00 PM and 8:00 PM, temperatures are 72°F and 69°F respectively, with winds remaining light from the Southeast. The relative humidity significantly increases, reaching 76% by 7:00 PM and then a very moist 87% by 8:00 PM. This high humidity, combined with light winds and cooling temperatures, creates an environment where moisture can condense, making conditions ripe for fog formation later in the night. The slight chance of precipitation (2-5%) suggests that a little mist or very light drizzle could accompany any developing fog.

In the deeper overnight hours, from 9:00 PM on December 23rd to 2:00 AM on December 24th, San Antonio will experience continued mild temperatures and very high humidity. Temperatures are predicted to gradually fall from 68°F at 9:00 PM to 65°F by 2:00 AM. The wind remains light, generally 5 mph from the Southeast or South-Southeast. The dew point stays elevated, around 64-65°F (17.78-18.33°C), leading to relative humidity consistently in the high 80s and low 90s, peaking at 97% by 12:00 AM. The 'short forecast' generally remains 'Partly Cloudy' or 'Mostly Cloudy' (by 12:00 AM), with 'Patchy Fog' appearing by 2:00 AM. Given the near-saturation conditions (relative humidity reaching 97%) and light winds, patchy fog is highly probable across the San Antonio area, especially in low-lying and rural areas. Drivers should be prepared for reduced visibility during early morning commutes on Wednesday. While the slight chance of precipitation is noted, significant rainfall is not expected. Overall, it will be a mild, humid, and potentially foggy night, requiring caution for those traveling.

For the most detailed, up-to-the-minute forecast, visit the official National Weather Service source: NWS Forecast for San Antonio, TX.

Dallas, TX In-Depth Forecast

Dallas, Texas, is poised for an unseasonably warm and breezy late afternoon, transitioning into a mild and partly cloudy night. The forecast for December 23rd commences at 3:00 PM CST with a remarkably high temperature of 81°F under 'Mostly Sunny' skies, coupled with a brisk 15 mph wind from the South-Southwest. The probability of precipitation is a clear 0%, indicating perfectly dry conditions. This unusual warmth continues through 4:00 PM, with temperatures at 80°F, winds from the South at 15 mph, and skies remaining 'Mostly Sunny'. By 5:00 PM, the temperature cools slightly to 78°F, winds ease to 10 mph from the South, and the 'short forecast' holds at 'Mostly Sunny'. The dew point, around 65°F (18.33°C), results in a relative humidity of 58-64%, which, while not exceptionally high, indicates a noticeable amount of moisture in the air given the high temperatures. This southerly flow is responsible for drawing warm, moist air northward from the Gulf, contributing to the elevated temperatures.

As night falls over Dallas, the 'short forecast' shifts to 'Partly Cloudy' or 'Mostly Clear'. By 6:00 PM, the temperature is expected to be 75°F, with winds remaining at 10 mph from the South. The relative humidity increases to 69% as the air cools. This trend of falling temperatures and rising humidity continues into the evening. By 7:00 PM and 8:00 PM, temperatures are 72°F and 70°F respectively, with winds consistently from the South at 10 mph. The relative humidity climbs further, reaching 76% by 7:00 PM and 81% by 8:00 PM. Despite the increasing moisture, the 'Mostly Clear' or 'Partly Cloudy' forecasts suggest that widespread fog is unlikely, primarily due to the persistent 10 mph southerly wind, which helps to mix the air and prevent saturation at the surface. The probability of precipitation remains at 0% throughout this entire period, ensuring a dry night for the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex.

In the deeper overnight hours, from 9:00 PM on December 23rd to 2:00 AM on December 24th, Dallas will continue to experience mild and increasingly humid conditions, though remaining mostly clear. Temperatures are predicted to gradually fall from 70°F at 9:00 PM to 66°F by 2:00 AM. The wind remains consistent, generally 5-10 mph from the South, providing enough air movement to deter significant fog formation. The dew point stays elevated, around 63-64°F (17.22-17.78°C), and the relative humidity steadily increases into the high 80s, peaking at 90% by 1:00 AM. Even at these higher humidity levels, the 'short forecast' remains 'Mostly Clear', indicating good visibility. The persistent wind, even if light, prevents the air from becoming completely saturated at the surface, which is crucial in preventing dense fog. Residents can expect a mild and relatively clear night, allowing for comfortable conditions. No weather advisories or major impacts are anticipated, making for a smooth transition into the holiday eve.

For the most detailed, up-to-the-minute forecast, visit the official National Weather Service source: NWS Forecast for Dallas, TX.

Austin, TX In-Depth Forecast

Austin, Texas, is experiencing a warm and pleasant late afternoon, transitioning into a mild, increasingly humid, and potentially foggy night. The forecast for December 23rd begins at 3:00 PM CST with a comfortable 74°F under 'Mostly Sunny' skies, accompanied by a 10 mph wind from the South. The probability of precipitation is 0%, ensuring dry conditions. The warmth continues through 4:00 PM, with temperatures rising slightly to 75°F under 'Sunny' skies, winds from the South at 10 mph. By 5:00 PM, the temperature is 73°F, still sunny, with winds maintaining 10 mph from the South. The dew point, initially around 63°F (17.22°C), contributes to a relative humidity of 69-76%, indicating a noticeable amount of moisture in the air. This southerly flow is a characteristic pattern, drawing humid air from the Gulf of Mexico into Central Texas.

As evening approaches, Austin transitions into 'Mostly Clear' to 'Partly Cloudy' conditions. By 6:00 PM, the temperature is expected to be 71°F, with winds easing to 5 mph from the South-Southeast. The relative humidity increases to 79% as the air cools. This trend of falling temperatures and rising humidity continues throughout the evening. By 7:00 PM and 8:00 PM, temperatures are 69°F and 67°F respectively, with winds remaining light from the Southeast or South-Southeast. The relative humidity climbs significantly, reaching 84% by 7:00 PM and then a very moist 87% by 8:00 PM. The probability of precipitation introduces a slight chance, rising to 1% by 9:00 PM. This high humidity, coupled with light winds and cooling temperatures, sets the stage for potential fog formation later in the night, especially in low-lying areas. The