Houston Winter Weather Alert: What to Expect This Weekend

Winter Storm Outlook for Houston

• ⚠️ A weather impact alert is in effect for Saturday and Sunday, with a rare winter mix of sleet, freezing rain, and ice possible.
• ❓ The exact timing and impact of the precipitation are still uncertain, with low confidence in precise predictions for Saturday and Sunday.
• ❄️ The most likely period for sleet, freezing rain, or ice is late Saturday evening into Sunday morning, when temperatures are expected to drop below freezing.

Driving Forces Behind the Storm

• 🥶 An Arctic air mass is impacting a significant portion of the country, including Texas, bringing drastically colder temperatures.
• 🌊 A low-pressure system moving out of the Pacific will bring moisture across the desert Southwest and into Texas, combining with the cold air.
• 🗺️ The entire state of Texas and parts of the Southeast are expected to be impacted by this winter weather event.

Understanding Winter Weather Phenomena

• 🌀 The polar vortex is an area of low pressure and cold air around the poles; when the jet stream weakens, this Arctic air can move south.
• 💨 Alberta clippers are weak, fast-moving winter systems that often form in Canada and can bring light snow and cold, blustery winds.
• 🚨 Winter weather advisories are issued for light precipitation causing slick travel, winter storm watches for potential heavy snow or ice, and winter storm warnings for significant impacts (6+ inches of snow or substantial ice).

Winter Car and Home Preparation Tips

• 🚗 Tested car hacks for de-icing windshields included using a warm water-filled sandwich bag (limited effectiveness on heavy ice), rubbing alcohol (mildly effective), and a vinegar-water DIY spray (effective but overpowering smell).
• 🧊 WD40 can prevent icy doors and handles, and hand sanitizer can de-ice frozen handles.
• 🏠 For home winterization, styrofoam cups can protect exposed pipes and outdoor faucets, cabinet doors should be left open to circulate warm air, and faucets should be set to drip.
• 💧 Disconnecting hoses and covering outside faucets are essential steps to prevent frozen pipes.