Houston, Texas – A hard freeze is impacting much of southeast Texas early Sunday, with subfreezing temperatures and dangerous wind chills affecting areas near Interstate 10, Interstate 45, U.S. 59, and the Sam Houston Tollway.
According to the National Weather Service Houston/Galveston office, a Freeze Warning remains in effect until 9 a.m. Sunday for most inland portions of southeast Texas. Forecast lows are expected to range from 19°F to 24°F, with the coldest temperatures occurring in non-urban and rural locations north and west of Houston.
Wind chill values early Sunday morning are expected to fall into the teens and lower 20s, with brisk north winds increasing the risk of cold exposure. The National Weather Service warns that prolonged exposure to these conditions can lead to frostbite and hypothermia, particularly during early morning travel hours.
Roadways including I-10, I-45, and Loop 610 may experience reduced traction on elevated surfaces and bridges where temperatures drop most efficiently. While no widespread precipitation is expected, officials caution that cold conditions alone can create hazards for drivers during the pre-dawn commute.
The hard freeze follows several days of unseasonably cold air across southeast Texas. Forecasters note that while temperatures are expected to gradually warm later Sunday and into early next week, sensitive vegetation, outdoor plumbing, and unprotected pets remain at risk during the warning period.
Residents are urged to take protective actions, including insulating exposed pipes, bringing pets indoors, and covering cold-sensitive plants. Outdoor workers and early-morning commuters should dress in layers and limit prolonged exposure to the cold.
The National Weather Service emphasizes that even brief hard freezes can cause damage in areas unaccustomed to prolonged cold, particularly outside the urban heat island of Houston.
