Houston, Texas – Drivers across the Houston metro could face nearly impossible travel conditions beginning Saturday evening as a powerful winter storm spreads ice across Southeast Texas.
According to the National Weather Service in Houston and Galveston, a Winter Storm Warning is in effect from 6 p.m. Saturday until 6 p.m. Sunday for Harris, Liberty, Waller, Fort Bend, Austin, Colorado, and Wharton counties. Heavy mixed precipitation is expected, with ice accumulations reaching up to two-tenths of an inch, enough to create widespread hazards on untreated roads.
Statewide concerns are centered on transportation and infrastructure. Bridges, overpasses, and elevated roadways are expected to ice over quickly, creating a high risk for crashes. TxDOT crews warn that major routes including Interstate 10, U.S. 59, Highway 290, and Beltway 8 could become treacherous or shut down if icing intensifies.
Within the Houston area, communities such as Sugar Land, Missouri City, Pasadena, Baytown, Cypress, Rosenberg, and Liberty may see tree damage and scattered power outages as ice builds on power lines and limbs. Emergency officials urge residents to avoid non-essential travel, charge electronic devices ahead of time, and keep flashlights, food, and water on hand.
The Winter Storm Warning remains in effect through Sunday evening, and additional advisories or extensions are possible if conditions worsen. Residents should continue monitoring local alerts and check road conditions by calling 511 before attempting to travel.
