Shreveport, Louisiana – Residents across the ArkLaTex region are in for a stretch of pleasant, mild, and unusually warm weather as the calendar edges closer to Christmas. After a cool start to the weekend, forecasters say temperatures will rise sharply, bringing spring-like warmth, limited rain chances, and what could be one of the warmest Christmas weeks in years for the region.
Friday Brings Sunshine After a Chilly Start
The day begins on a cool note Friday morning, with temperatures dipping into the 30s across much of the ArkLaTex. Residents heading out early may need a jacket or light coat, especially before sunrise.
However, conditions improve quickly as a strong area of high pressure settles over the region. This system brings dry air and abundant sunshine, allowing temperatures to rebound nicely by the afternoon.
- Morning lows: Upper 30s
- Afternoon highs: Upper 50s to low 60s
- Conditions: Sunny and dry
These temperatures are near average for mid-December, making Friday a comfortable and calm day for travel, errands, or outdoor plans.
Saturday Turns Breezy and Much Warmer
Saturday marks a noticeable shift as warmer air surges northward into the ArkLaTex. While a few morning clouds may linger early, skies will turn mostly sunny by midday.
A southerly breeze develops, helping to push temperatures well above normal.
- High temperatures: Low to mid-70s
- Winds: South at 10–15 mph, gusting over 20 mph
- Conditions: Warm, breezy, and mostly sunny
For mid-December, these readings are well above seasonal norms, and it may feel more like late March than Christmas week. Outdoor activities, sporting events, and yard work should have excellent weather conditions, though the breeze may be noticeable at times.
Sunday Brings Clouds and Light Rain Chances
Changes arrive late Saturday night as a weak cold front drifts into the region. Unlike stronger winter fronts, this one brings very limited impacts.
Some parts of the ArkLaTex may wake up to mist or light drizzle Sunday morning, but rainfall is expected to be minimal.
- Rain totals: Less than 0.10 inches
- High temperatures: Low to mid-60s
- Conditions: Mostly cloudy, cooler than Saturday
While skies will remain overcast for much of the day, forecasters say outdoor plans should still be manageable. Residents are encouraged to monitor the forecast, especially if traveling or planning outdoor gatherings.
Next Week: Record-Warm Christmas Outlook
Looking ahead, meteorologists say a remarkably warm pattern will dominate the final week before Christmas and beyond. A strong ridge of high pressure is expected to build over the southern United States, locking in dry and very warm conditions.
- Monday through Friday highs: 70s
- Overnight lows: Mild, well above freezing
- Rain chances: Minimal to none
In fact, forecasters say there is a strong possibility the ArkLaTex may not see another freezing temperature for the rest of 2025. Afternoon highs running nearly 20 degrees above average could make this one of the warmest Christmas stretches on record.
With conditions this mild, holiday travel across the region should remain smooth, with no winter weather hazards expected.
A Christmas That Feels Like Spring
With temperatures soaring into the 70s on Christmas week, residents may find themselves celebrating the holidays in short sleeves instead of sweaters. Forecasters jokingly suggest that Santa Claus may need to pack a swimsuit instead of a winter coat this year.
While warm weather may be welcome for travel and outdoor festivities, it also serves as a reminder of how unusual this pattern is for December in the ArkLaTex.
What Do You Think?
Do you enjoy a warm Christmas, or do you prefer cooler holiday weather? How are these above-average temperatures changing your holiday plans?
Share your thoughts in the comments below and join the conversation.
