Houston, Texas – A significant cold outbreak is expected to impact Southeast Texas late Saturday through Sunday morning, prompting a Cold Weather Advisory followed by a Freeze Watch as temperatures drop to levels capable of causing widespread damage.
According to the National Weather Service Houston/Galveston, a Cold Weather Advisory is in effect from 3 a.m. to 10 a.m. Saturday, with wind chills forecast between 11 and 26 degrees across much of the region. Temperatures early Saturday morning are expected to range from the mid-20s to mid-30s, with colder readings north of Interstate 10.
A Freeze Watch has been issued from 9 p.m. Saturday through 9 a.m. Sunday for most of Southeast Texas, where a hard freeze is likely. Overnight low temperatures are forecast to fall between 18 and 24 degrees, while wind chills may dip as low as 14 degrees, especially near and north of Interstate 10, Interstate 45, and U.S. Highway 59.
The coldest conditions are expected early Sunday morning. Forecasters warn that these temperatures could cause burst pipes, damage to sensitive vegetation, and dangerous conditions for pets and people without adequate shelter.
Residents are urged to take precautions now by protecting the four P’s: People, Pets, Plants, and Pipes. Officials recommend insulating exposed plumbing, dripping faucets, bringing pets indoors, and covering or moving plants to warmer locations.
Travel impacts are expected to be minimal, but cold-sensitive infrastructure and outdoor activities may be affected. Commuters traveling along I-10, I-45, SH-288, and coastal roadways should be aware of sharply colder conditions, especially during overnight and early morning hours.
The National Weather Service notes that conditions will gradually improve later Sunday as temperatures begin to rebound, though cool weather is expected to linger into early next week.
Residents across Southeast Texas are encouraged to monitor forecast updates in case the Freeze Watch is upgraded to a Freeze Warning.
