Texas – Cold air presses deep into southeast Texas as flags snap stiffly and wind slides through empty streets. Breath clouds the air. Jackets feel thinner than usual as Houston wakes to rare winter cold.
An Extreme Cold Warning remains in effect for much of southeast Texas, including Houston, through midday Tuesday. Wind chills as low as 5 to 10 degrees are possible early, creating a real frostbite risk on exposed skin.
According to the National Weather Service in Houston/Galveston, temperatures hover in the mid-20s this morning and recover slowly. Winds add bite, especially before sunrise and during the early commute. Residents should limit time outdoors and dress in layers, including hats and gloves.
Roads remain mostly dry for now, but the risk is not gone. Any lingering moisture can freeze quickly, especially on bridges and overpasses. After all, daytime melting can turn dangerous fast once temperatures dip again. Drivers should stay alert for isolated icy patches through early Tuesday.
The cold also threatens homes. Prolonged freezing temperatures raise concerns for burst pipes, especially in poorly insulated areas. Wrap exposed pipes, drip faucets if needed, and check outdoor spigots. Pets should remain indoors, and space heaters should be used carefully.
Conditions improve Tuesday afternoon as sunshine returns. Highs climb into the mid-40s, easing immediate cold stress. By Wednesday, highs near 50 bring noticeable relief, though nights stay chilly.
Late week warmth builds steadily. Thursday and Friday trend milder, with highs pushing into the lower to mid-50s. That warmup brings one more concern. Refreezing can occur at night if water pools during the day.
The broader 6–10 day outlook favors drier weather across Texas. Temperatures trend above normal into early February, though sharp cold snaps remain possible.
How cold did it feel where you are this morning? Share what you’re seeing as this Arctic blast slowly backs away.
Five-Day Outlook – Houston, TX
• Today: Mostly cloudy, hard freeze early, high near 38°F
• Tuesday: Mostly sunny, improving, high near 46°F
• Wednesday: Sunny and milder, high near 50°F
• Thursday: Mostly sunny, warmer, high near 54°F
• Friday: Mostly sunny, cooler at night, high near 50°F
