Texas Storms Followed Record Dry Streak

A cold front has brought scattered rain to parts of Texas after a 67-day dry spell ended.

Updated on Sept. 22, 2026 in Current Conditions

Dark, heavy rain clouds loom over a cracked, parched prairie landscape, marking the end of a long drought in Texas. — A cold front brought scattered rain to parts of Northern and Central Texas on September 22, ending a record 67-day dry spell. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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The National Weather Service forecasted storms for Northern and Central Texas on September 22, 2026, following a 67-day dry streak that concluded the previous day. Showers developed in areas including Cisco, Killeen, and Waco.

Why it matters

A cold front moving into the region has prompted the return of precipitation after an extended period of dry conditions. The weather system is expected to bring localized relief alongside risks of small hail and gusty winds.

Official reports indicate rain chances range from 20% to 30% in Killeen and Waco, with 10% to 20% potential in Palestine. The heat index is expected to range from 95 to 103 degrees.

The players

National Weather Service

The National Weather Service is the federal agency responsible for providing weather forecasts and hazardous storm warnings for the United States.

The details

Showers developed near Cisco, Killeen, and Waco as a weak cold front crossed the Texas-Oklahoma border. The storms are expected to produce small hail, gusty winds, and frequent lightning before tapering off in the evening.

September 21, 2026: A 67-day dry streak ended with 0.01 inches of rain measured at the airport.
September 22, 2026: Storms were forecast for Northern and Central Texas.
September 22, 2026, 7 p.m. to 10 p.m.: Forecasted storm activity is expected to dissipate.
September 27, 2026: Additional rain and storm chances are projected near Dallas.

Seasonal Patterns

This weather event follows the reporting patterns set by the National Weather Service's severe thunderstorm convective outlook criteria. These systems are common as cold fronts interact with lingering late-summer heat across the region.

Residents in Northern and Central Texas should prepare for potential hazards including frequent lightning, gusty winds, and small hail during the afternoon and evening hours. Stay alert for changing conditions as the heat index is projected to reach as high as 103 degrees.

The takeaway

While the end of the 67-day dry spell brings much-needed moisture to the region, the combination of high heat and incoming storm systems necessitates ongoing caution. Residents should monitor local updates, particularly as storm activity is expected to peak during the afternoon hours.