HOUSTON – An arctic blast of Canadian air colliding with moisture from the Gulf is expected to bring a winter storm to the region, raising the risk of a hard freeze and the possibility of cold rain or freezing rain depending on moisture levels and the timing of the cold front.
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Meteorologist Brittany Begley said the most likely immediate threat is a hard freeze, and she urged residents to prioritize protecting household plumbing.
“Protecting pipes is a top concern,” Begley said. “Preparation matters.”
Protecting your pipes:
Officials and weather forecasters said small, low-cost steps can prevent major damage. Recommended actions include disconnecting outdoor hoses and shutting exterior valves, opening cabinet doors under sinks, letting a small faucet drip during the coldest hours, insulating exposed pipes or using heat tape, and knowing the location of the main water shutoff.
Whether the region, especially Houston, sees freezing rain or just cold rain hinges on timing. If the super-cold air arrives rapidly, rain falling on cold surfaces could freeze on contact, creating ice on roads, trees and power lines. If the cold air arrives more gradually, precipitation is more likely to remain as cold rain.
Freezing rain is particularly hazardous on roadways, forecasters said, because bridges and overpasses freeze first. Cold air circulates above and below these structures, causing pavement temperatures to drop and thin, nearly invisible layers of “black ice” to form.
Freezing rain in January of 2024 vs now:
Traffic and safety concerns are not theoretical. On Jan. 16, 2024, the Houston Police Department said in a tweet that more than 580 crashes had occurred since midnight, with more than 100 described as ice-related. That day, meteorologist Justin Stapleton reported a record low of 18 degrees Fahrenheit at Bush Intercontinental Airport.
Data from AAA and federal highway sources show that roughly 24% of weather-related vehicle crashes occur on snowy, slushy or icy pavement, substantially increasing the risk of crashes, injuries and fatalities. With heavy weekend travel, officials warned that nonessential trips should be reconsidered, particularly in northern areas of the state where freezing-rain threat is currently higher.
Freezing rain and power outages:
Freezing rain also increases the chance of power outages when ice accumulates on tree limbs and power lines. Residents were advised to charge devices, keep extra blankets on hand, stock water and flashlights, and have a plan for possible outages.
Begley said forecasts will be refined as new model data arrives and that the weather team will issue updates at noon, 3 p.m. and 4 p.m. and provide additional information through the weekend.
“Even if conditions only match past events, preparation is essential to stay safe before, during and after the storm,” she said.
For the latest updates, follow local weather alerts and the station’s weather team