80s this week, then a powerful cold front changes everything

It will feel more like mid-April by Thursday, with temperatures crossing into the 80s. Warmth will extend into the weekend before a powerful cold front arrives.
Published: Feb. 17, 2026 at 5:30 PM CST

(WTVY) - Spring fever is officially running wild across the Wiregrass. After climbing to the lower to mid-70s Wednesday, temperatures will surge into the lower 80s Thursday through Saturday—but enjoy it while you can. A powerful cold front arrives Saturday night with showers and thunderstorms, ushering in much colder air for early next week.

Wednesday: The Warm-Up Begins

Wednesday starts the climb with partly sunny skies, a stray shower possible, and highs reaching the lower to mid-70s. It’s a taste of what’s coming.

Thursday Through Saturday: The 80s Dominate

Thursday ramps up to 80° with partly cloudy skies and a slight rain chance (10%). Friday continues the warmth with partly cloudy conditions, a slight rain chance (20%), and highs pushing 81°. Saturday keeps the heat on with highs near 81° and a daytime rain chance of just 20%.

While extra moisture could produce a few sprinkles or stray showers throughout this stretch, no substantial rainfall is expected—until Saturday night.

Saturday Night: The Game Changer

Saturday night marks a dramatic shift. A powerful cold front passes through with showers and thunderstorms developing, with a 70% rain chance as the system moves in. This isn’t a dry cold front—it brings moisture and thunderstorm activity.

The Cold Reality Sets In

Sunday delivers sunny skies but a sharp cooldown, with highs dropping to the upper 50s. Monday follows with mostly sunny conditions and highs near 53°. By Tuesday, temperatures fall further with partly sunny skies and highs only reaching the mid-50s. Overnight lows Tuesday dip to the mid-to-upper 20s—a stark contrast to Friday’s 65°.

Bottom line: Savor the 80-degree warmth this week, but prepare for a dramatic reversal when a powerful cold front arrives Saturday night. Much colder air takes over early next week.

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