A strong Arctic cold front is set to blast through Houston on Tuesday night, bringing some of the coldest temperatures of the season with wind chills dropping as low as 17°F. The National Weather Service has issued a Wind Chill Advisory, urging residents to prepare for dangerous cold conditions and the risk of icy roads in some areas.
The incoming front is expected to rapidly drop temperatures overnight, with gusty winds making it feel even colder. While Houston is no stranger to winter cold snaps, wind chills in the teens are rare for the area, making this a potentially hazardous event for residents unaccustomed to freezing conditions.
How Cold Will It Get?
Forecasters predict that temperatures will plummet into the 20s across the region, with wind gusts amplifying the cold.
- Actual Temperatures: Lows between 22°F and 28°F
- Wind Chills: Feels-like temperatures between 17°F and 22°F
- Winds: North winds 15-25 mph, with occasional gusts up to 30 mph
Areas Most Affected
Downtown Houston & Harris County: Wind chills in the upper teens, with subfreezing temperatures overnight
Katy & The Woodlands: Feels-like temperatures dropping to 17°F, with bitter wind gusts
Galveston & Coastal Areas: Wind chills in the low 20s, with a risk of freezing conditions inland
Sugar Land & Pearland: Temperatures dipping to 25°F, with icy patches possible on bridges
Potential Hazards and Safety Risks
Frozen Pipes & Heating Issues: Prolonged exposure to below-freezing temperatures could cause pipes to burst
Icy Bridges & Overpasses: Black ice may form on elevated roadways, leading to hazardous driving conditions
Power Demand Surge: Increased heating use could strain the power grid, raising concerns over outages
Frostbite & Hypothermia Risk: Cold wind chills can cause frostbite on exposed skin within 30 minutes
How to Stay Safe in Extreme Cold
Limit Time Outdoors: If you must be outside, wear warm layers, gloves, and a hat to prevent heat loss
Protect Your Pipes: Let faucets drip overnight and insulate exposed pipes to prevent freezing
Prepare for Power Outages: Charge phones, keep extra blankets and emergency supplies handy
Drive With Caution: Watch for black ice on roads and bridges, especially in the early morning hours
Check on Vulnerable Residents: Ensure that elderly family members and neighbours have proper heating
When Will It Warm Up?
Houston will remain cold through Wednesday morning, with temperatures struggling to reach above freezing until mid-day. By Thursday, warmer air will begin to push back in, bringing daytime highs back into the 50s. However, another reinforcing shot of cold air is possible later in the week, keeping conditions chilly through the weekend.
City officials are urging residents to take precautions as the coldest air of the season settles in. Stay tuned to the National Weather Service and local weather stations for updates on freezing temperatures and possible travel impacts.