Dangerous winter storm forecast: Freezing rain and ice risks for the Houston area:
HOUSTON – Bundle up and get ready, Houston. Freezing rain is making its way to southeast Texas and the ice may get close to our coastal cities. This kind of icy weather is extremely rare for Houston.
Ice accumulations could top one-tenth of an inch north and west of Houston, and it’s possible our northern cities like Huntsville could approach a quarter of an inch of ice accumulation. Even lighter amounts could still lead to slick roads and travel headaches near Houston. The last significant freezing rain event was in March 2014, and before that, a major ice warning was issued back in January 2007, so this weekend is shaping up to be an unusual and potentially hazardous weather event. In 2014 the freezing rain caused widespread power outages.
Freezing rain is especially dangerous on bridges and overpasses, because they freeze quickly. Car accidents are possible if folks try venturing out on icy roads.
Major impacts expected: Travel disruptions, power outages, and hard freeze potential:
Temperatures plummet from balmy 70s on Friday to the lower-20s and 30s by Saturday and Sunday. Wind chills could dip into the single digits and teens, making it feel much colder than the thermometer reads.
Hard freeze warnings are possible for Sunday and Monday mornings, with lows dropping below 24 degrees in some neighborhoods. Pipes burst at 19° and we’re getting close to that temperature.
Along with slick roads, the ice could weigh down tree limbs and power lines, raising the risk for areas to experience isolated power outages, especially where ice is heaviest. CenterPoint has done a good job trimming back trees after Hurricane Beryl in 2024. Any power outages would be isolated because of this.
Urgent precautions needed: Protecting pipes, staying safe, and keeping informed:
My hope is your take this forecast seriously and act before the cold hits. Pipes should be wrapped and protected before temperatures dive Friday night, since a hard freeze can cause them to burst. Rain is expected Wednesday, so Thursday and early Friday are your best times to get this done. With icy weather expected on Saturday, it’s best to reconsider travel and try to stay in over the weekend. You’ll be able to make a better-informed decision about travel as you see the impact on the area. I’ve put a detailed video together on the freezing rain forecast and impacts below. Click to watch.