The sheer size of Texas creates several different climates, though in general this state is warm all year round. North Texas and the Panhandle are the coldest regions of Texas, but even in the dead of winter the daytime highs are around 50°F. The Gulf coast cities like Houston and Galveston are significantly warmer in winter, with daytime highs averaging in the 60s (°F) between December and February. Most of the precipitation in Texas falls in this southeastern coastal region as well, while the Panhandle and western end of the state are quite dry.
Summers are very hot throughout the state, particularly in the southern regions around Houston where high humidity levels conspire to create very stuff sweaty conditions. The entire state experiences daytime highs well into the 90s°F between June and August. Texas also has the dubious distinction of getting the most tornadoes of any American state per year. An average of 139 tornadoes hit between April and June each year, primarily in north Texas and the Panhandle.
Texas is also in the regional hurricane pathway. Some of the country’s most destructive hurricanes have been in cities like Galveston along the Gulf coast, usually arriving in the late summer and fall. During spring and summer, thunderstorms are common in the east and north of the state. Snow is possible in the hills of west Texas and the Panhandle, but quite rare in the rest of Texas.
Best Time to Visit Texas
Since summers are so hot and spring brings the danger of tornadoes and severe thunderstorms, the best time to visit Texas is in the fall or winter. By October the temperatures have dropped into the 80s (°F), and November enjoys very pleasant 70°F weather. This is also a fairly dry time of year, ideal for beach activities along the coast and hiking in the state parks. Even the winter months, while cool, are rarely cold. Since most tourists flock to the Texas beaches during their winter and spring breaks, a trip during the fall can present good deals on hotels and far fewer crowds at the big attractions.