Houston Winter Storm Update: Freezing Rain and Hazardous Travel Conditions

Current Winter Storm Conditions

• ❄️ Freezing rain is moving into the city of Houston, with confirmed reports in the Tomball area and northern Harris County.
• 🌡️ Temperatures have fallen to freezing (32°F) in areas like Tomball and Conroe, while Bush Airport remains slightly above freezing at 34°F.
• ⚠️ Overpasses and bridges in areas like Tomball are expected to begin icing over within the next hour.

Travel Hazards and Road Conditions

• 🚗 Hazardous travel conditions are expected along major highways including the Grand Parkway, US 290 towards Cypress, and I-10 west of Houston.
• 🧊 Ice accumulations are possible, with areas north of Houston potentially seeing up to a tenth of an inch.
• ⚡ A rare "thunder sleet" phenomenon, involving lightning with sleet, has been observed in areas west of Houston, including along I-10.

Forecast and Recommendations

• ⏰ Precipitation is expected to continue through at least 5-6 a.m., with temperatures remaining near or below freezing.
• 🥶 Colder temperatures, with wind chills feeling like the teens, are anticipated in the early hours of Monday.
• 🏠 Residents are advised to stay off the roads, keep mobile devices charged, and protect exposed pipes.
• 📈 Temperatures are expected to rebound into the 50s by the middle of the week.

Broader Texas Impact

• 🗺️ Widespread winter weather problems are also being reported across the state, particularly in areas like Austin and San Antonio.
• 🛣️ Major highway corridors throughout Texas are being impacted by sleet and snow, leading to significant travel concerns.
• ⚠️ A Winter Storm Warning remains in effect for much of the Houston area through 6 a.m. Sunday.