You wake up in Tyler, Texas, and the first thing you notice isn't the smell of pines—it's the bite in the air. Honestly, if you aren't from around here, the "mild" reputation of Southern winters feels like a bit of a lie right about now.
Today, Sunday, January 18, 2026, is a perfect example of the East Texas see-saw. We’re currently sitting at a crisp 27°F, and with the wind coming out of the northwest at 4 mph, it actually feels like 24°F. That’s the kind of cold that finds the gap between your scarf and your jacket.
The Reality of Tyler TX Weather Today
People think Texas is all desert heat and tumbleweeds. They’re wrong. In Tyler, January is our "put your plants in the garage" month.
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The forecast for today is essentially a study in contrast. While we’re starting in the 20s, we are headed for a high of 52°F. That is a 25-degree swing in just a few hours. Basically, you'll need a heavy coat for your morning coffee run and probably just a light sweater by the time you're heading to Bergfeld Park in the afternoon.
Why the Humidity Matters (Even in Winter)
Currently, the humidity is at 49%. In the summer, that would be a dream. In the winter? It makes the cold feel "wet." It’s that damp chill that settles into your bones. Luckily, as the sun stays out, that humidity is expected to drop to around 32% by peak afternoon.
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The sky is staying sunny all day. We’ve got a UV index of 3, so even though it’s chilly, the sun is actually doing some work. There is 0% chance of precipitation. No snow, no "wintry mix," just clear blue Texas sky.
Navigating the Day-to-Night Shift
If you have plans for Sunday night, don't let the afternoon sun fool you. The temperature is going to crater once that sun dips. We’re looking at a low of 26°F tonight.
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- Condition: Clear skies.
- Wind: Shifting slightly to the west at 10 mph.
- Precipitation: Still 0%.
The wind speed picking up tonight is the real kicker. A 10 mph wind at 26 degrees creates a wind chill that can be surprisingly dangerous for exposed pipes or sensitive outdoor pets.
What This Means for Your Routine
Honestly, today is the kind of day where "layering" isn't just a fashion suggestion; it's a survival strategy.
If you're heading out to the Rose Garden or just running errands at the Broadway Square Mall, start heavy. The northwest wind is light now, but it’s consistent. By 2:00 PM, you’ll be peeling off layers. By 6:00 PM, you’ll be reaching for them again.
Actionable Tips for Today
- Check your tires: Significant temperature drops like we've seen overnight (from yesterday's highs down to 27°F) can cause your tire pressure light to pop on. It’s usually just the air contracting, but it’s worth a quick check.
- Hydrate: We forget to drink water when it’s cold. With the humidity dropping to 32%, the air is going to get very dry this afternoon. Your skin and your energy levels will feel it.
- Frost Watch: Since we’re hitting 26°F tonight, make sure your outdoor hoses are disconnected. It’s a small task that saves a massive headache later this week.
- Sun Protection: A UV index of 3 is low, but if you’re spending the whole afternoon outside in the direct sun, you can still catch a bit of a burn, especially with the clear atmosphere we have today.
Keep an eye on the wind shifting to the west tonight. That’s usually the signal for the next minor pressure change in Smith County. Enjoy the sun while it's up—it’s the best part of a Tyler winter day.