Winter’s Chill Descends on Houston: Are You Prepared A powerful cold front is sweeping through Southeast Texas, bringing freezing temperatures, cold rain, and potential hazards to the Houston area. The National Weather Service has issued advisories warning of icy roads, frost risks, and dangerous conditions for outdoor activities. With lows dipping near freezing and rain adding to the mix, it’s crucial to prepare for this unusual winter weather.
Current Weather in Houston
- Temperature: 39°F (4°C)
- Skies: Mostly cloudy with a damp chill in the air.
Key Warnings for Houston
- Cold Weather Advisory
- When: Midnight tonight through 9:00 AM Thursday
- What’s Happening: Freezing temperatures as low as 30°F (-1°C) in parts of the area.
- What It Means:
- Frostbite risk for anyone exposed to the cold without proper clothing.
- Damage to exposed pipes and sensitive plants.
- Rain and Possible Wintry Mix
- When: Thursday evening into early Friday
- What to Expect:
- Cold rain across most of the city, with a chance of sleet or freezing rain in northern areas.
- Hazardous driving conditions on wet roads, especially bridges and overpasses.
- Impacts:
- Slick roads and reduced visibility during commutes.
- Ponding on roadways could lead to localized flooding.
Houston’s 7-Day Weather Forecast
- Today (Wednesday): Partly cloudy and cold. High: 43°F (6°C), Low: 38°F (3°C).
- Thursday: Cold with rain arriving late. High: 41°F (5°C), Low: 34°F (1°C).
- Friday: Early morning rain, then clearing but staying cold. High: 41°F (5°C), Low: 32°F (0°C).
- Saturday: Sunshine returns with a slight warm-up. High: 56°F (14°C), Low: 38°F (4°C).
- Sunday: Bright and sunny. High: 64°F (18°C), Low: 39°F (4°C).
How to Prepare for the Freeze
- Protect the Four Ps:
- People: Dress warmly, especially children and the elderly, who are most vulnerable to cold.
- Pets: Bring pets indoors or provide adequate shelter and warmth.
- Pipes: Wrap exposed pipes and let faucets drip to prevent freezing and bursts.
- Plants: Cover sensitive plants or bring them inside.
- Drive Safely in the Rain:
- Reduce speed and increase following distance on wet roads.
- Avoid driving on bridges and overpasses during freezing conditions.
- Stay Connected:
- Monitor weather updates for any changes in forecasts or additional warnings.
- Sign up for emergency alerts to stay informed.
The Bottom Line
Houston is gearing up for a rare winter chill with freezing temperatures and cold rain on the way. Take steps now to protect your family, pets, and property from frost, freezing pipes, and wet roads. With a little preparation, you can safely weather this storm and stay warm through the cold snap.
Stay safe and stay warm, Houston!