A weak cold front is sliding into West Central Texas just in time for Friday night events, and while it won’t bring a major weather threat, there’s a small chance of thunderstorms that could briefly interrupt outdoor plans—especially high school football games and other evening gatherings.
Small Storm Chance May Affect Friday Night Plans
The National Weather Service in San Angelo has placed a 20% chance of storms in the forecast for Friday evening. This means most areas will stay dry, but a few spots could see brief showers or isolated thunderstorms, especially in and around Abilene and north of San Angelo.
If storms do form, they might bring:
Lightning delays during games or events
Slick field conditions or wet roads
Gusty winds around 10 mph as the front moves in
While the risk is low, it’s always best to stay weather-aware, especially when lightning is involved. Even a single storm cell can cause sudden delays or safety issues, so organizers and attendees should keep an indoor backup plan ready—just in case.
Evening Temps Will Cool Off Nicely
Despite the slight storm risk, the cold front will bring welcome relief from the heat. Temperatures at kickoff will be close to 90°F, but will steadily fall through the 80s and into the 70s after sunset. With north winds around 5–10 mph, the night will feel much more comfortable by the second half of your Friday plans.
Here’s a quick look at what to expect hour-by-hour in Abilene on Friday evening:
| Time | Temperature | Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| 6:00 PM | 90°F | Warm, slight breeze |
| 7:00 PM | 86°F | Partly cloudy |
| 8:00 PM | 82°F | 20% storm chance |
| 9:00 PM | 78°F | Breezy, cooler |
| 10:00 PM | 74°F | Clearer, more pleasant |
Areas to Watch More Closely
North of San Angelo and Abilene: This is where storm chances are slightly higher and warnings could be issued.
Outdoor venues and stadiums: Coaches, players, and spectators should monitor radar and announcements for possible delays.
No Major Weather Threat, But Stay Alert
The good news is that no widespread severe weather is expected, and many areas won’t see any rain at all. However, because lightning can be dangerous even from isolated storms, it’s wise to:
Download a weather app to get alerts
Have shelter options nearby at outdoor events
Dress light for the early heat, and bring a light jacket for the post-front cool-down
Friday night across West Central Texas looks mostly calm and more comfortable as a cold front brings in cooler air. But with even a small storm chance, it’s always smart to stay ready—especially if you’re attending outdoor events like football games. A few raindrops or flashes of lightning could cause short delays, but overall, the evening promises to end on a cooler and calmer note.
