Houston, Texas – An unusually dangerous winter storm is set to impact much of southeast and south central Texas this weekend, with freezing rain and sleet expected to make roads treacherous and raise the risk of power outages across the Houston area through Sunday evening.
According to the National Weather Service in Houston and Galveston, a Winter Storm Warning is in effect from Saturday evening through Sunday evening for Harris County and surrounding areas, including Houston, Pasadena, Baytown, Sugar Land, Missouri City, Rosenberg, Liberty, and Wharton. Ice accumulations between one-tenth and one-quarter of an inch are expected, with snow and sleet accumulations up to one inch. Even small ice amounts are enough to cause dangerous driving conditions across the region.
Bridges and overpasses along I-10, I-45, I-69, the Beltway, and Loop 610 are expected to ice over quickly once precipitation begins. Tree damage and scattered power outages are possible as ice builds on power lines, especially overnight Saturday into early Sunday.
Farther west and southwest, including Austin, San Antonio, the Hill Country, and parts of the Brazos Valley, significant icing is also expected, with isolated areas seeing up to a half inch of ice. Extreme cold will follow the storm, increasing the threat to unprotected pipes, pets, and livestock.
Travel is strongly discouraged across southeast Texas through Sunday. Residents are urged to charge devices, prepare for potential outages, and stay off roads if possible. Conditions may improve late Sunday evening, but lingering ice could continue to impact travel into early next week.
