Texas wakes up stiff and silent as cold air presses into homes, cars, and exposed pipes. Frost coats rooftops, and the chill feels sharper than the thermometer suggests.
An Extreme Cold Warning remains in effect across Houston and southeast Texas through midday. Early readings sit near 28 degrees, but wind chills between 10 and 15 degrees make conditions feel much colder. Prolonged exposure can quickly lead to frostbite or hypothermia without protection.
Roads remain mostly dry, but lingering moisture may freeze on bridges and shaded streets. Drivers should use caution during the morning commute, especially on elevated roadways and ramps. Even a thin glaze can cause sudden loss of traction.
The cold also threatens homes and infrastructure. Hard freeze conditions increase the risk of burst pipes, especially in uninsulated areas. Pets and livestock need warm shelter, and space heaters should be used carefully to avoid fire hazards.
Conditions begin improving later today. Sunshine helps temperatures climb toward the upper 40s by afternoon. Winds ease, allowing the warning to expire, but the ground stays cold well into the evening. Refreezing remains possible overnight where moisture lingers.
Midweek brings a dramatic turnaround. Wednesday turns sunny and warmer, with highs reaching the mid-50s. Thursday pushes even warmer, nearing the low 60s, before a slight cooldown late week. A small chance of showers appears Thursday night, but no wintry precipitation is expected.
Meteorologists note this sharp temperature swing is typical during late-January Arctic outbreaks. While the cold loosens its grip, rapid warming can still cause issues where pipes or roads were stressed earlier.
For now, layer up, protect pets and plumbing, and check on neighbors who may need help. How cold did it feel where you are this morning?
5-Day Outlook for Houston, TX
- Today: Extreme cold early, sunny, high near 49
- Wednesday: Sunny and warmer, high near 55
- Thursday: Partly sunny, mild, high near 62
- Friday: Partly sunny, high near 49
- Saturday: Sunny and cooler, high near 42
