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South Texas Sets Late-February Heat Records as La Puerta Hits 104°F

A strong ridge over northern Mexico sent hot, dry air north, producing an unusual late-winter surge.

Overview

  • La Puerta reached 104°F, the hottest U.S. temperature so far this year and a reading that ties the U.S. meteorological‑winter record.
  • Laredo surpassed 100°F on Feb. 26, breaking the daily record, though the city’s earliest triple-digit day remains Feb. 18, 1986.
  • The National Weather Service confirmed San Antonio hit 95°F, setting a daily record, while Zapata and Cotulla reached 103°F and Falfurrias hit 100°F.
  • Typical late‑February highs in the region are in the mid‑ to upper‑70s, placing this week’s readings roughly 10–30°F above normal.
  • A weak cold front is trimming temperatures, with Friday highs forecast in the upper 80s from the Rio Grande Valley to Laredo and the mid‑80s in San Antonio.