Houston Winter Storm: Icy Roads, Power Outages, and Weather Updates

Winter Storm Conditions in Houston

• ❄️ Houston is experiencing near-freezing temperatures and a winter storm warning, with live coverage of icy roads and potential power outages.
• 🌧️ Radar shows a split: rain on the east/southeast side, and freezing rain/sleet in areas like Katy, with some thunder reported.
• 🌡️ Temperatures are hovering around the freezing point (32-34°F) in the city center, with areas like Huntsville at 28°F and Conroe between 32-33°F.

Forecast and Road Safety

• ⏳ Precipitation is expected to end by 7-7:30 AM, but temperatures may drop below freezing even in the city center, posing a risk of roads freezing.
• 🧊 By late morning, clouds are expected to break, with temperatures potentially rising into the mid-30s, aiding in thawing.
• 🥶 Overnight into Monday morning, temperatures are predicted to plummet into the 20s, with wind chills feeling like single digits in some locations, necessitating winterization efforts.
• ⚠️ Road conditions are a concern, with reports of icy conditions on the Grand Parkway eastbound near Teli, and warnings that bridges and overpasses are particularly at risk.

Power Grid and Emergency Response

• ⚡ Centerpoint Energy is reporting approximately 1,300 outages, with 3,300 crews on standby for response, and a capability to restore power within 12 hours.
• 🔌 Other providers like Energy are showing all green, indicating stable power across the area.
• 🔥 A fire in Richmond involved several apartment units, with three people transported to the hospital and displaced residents taken to a warming center.

Regional and Local Observations

• 🚗 Crews are applying brine solution to roadways to minimize freezing impacts, though bridges and overpasses remain a risk.
• 🧊 In Cypress, ice is collecting on poles and trees, with wet parking lots and streets posing a risk as temperatures are expected to drop further.
• 🚗 Drivers are advised to slow down and exercise caution, with many people venturing out despite the cold, and a strong recommendation to stay home unless absolutely necessary.

Resources and Information

• 💻 A list of school closures and open warming centers is available via text by texting 'FREEZE' to 7135261111.
• 🌐 Live traffic updates and closings information are being provided through KHOU.com.