An Arctic blast is bringing a rare winter storm to Southeast Texas, prompting widespread preparations and warnings for the region. A Winter Storm Warning is now in effect for all of Southeast Texas from 6 p.m. Monday through 6 p.m. Tuesday, with snow, sleet, and freezing rain expected to create hazardous conditions. Here’s what you need to know to stay safe and prepared:
What to Expect: Snow, Ice, and a Hard Freeze

The National Weather Service predicts 3 to 5 inches of snow and sleet accumulation across most of Houston and Harris County, with localized areas potentially seeing 6 to 12 inches. Ice accumulations up to one-tenth of an inch from freezing rain are also possible, especially in the southern parts of the area.
Temperatures are expected to plunge into the mid-to-upper 20s on Monday and Tuesday mornings, with a hard freeze in the teens anticipated by Wednesday morning. Freezing temperatures could last for nearly 48 hours, which may result in pipe bursts and long-lasting icy conditions on roads. Another freeze is possible Thursday morning before temperatures warm back into the 60s over the weekend.
Timeline of the Winter Storm
- Monday Evening: Light wintry precipitation may begin late Monday afternoon, with snow and ice intensifying overnight.
- Tuesday Morning: Heavy snow and sleet are likely, with hazardous road conditions throughout the day.
- Tuesday Afternoon: Precipitation should taper off by 3–6 p.m., but icy conditions will persist.
- Wednesday Morning: Temperatures will drop into the teens, with another freeze Thursday morning before conditions improve Friday.

Travel Impact
Residents are strongly advised to stay off the roads starting Monday evening and be prepared to remain wherever they are until at least Wednesday afternoon. Hazardous travel conditions could last into Thursday if snow and ice amounts are heavier than predicted. Air travel may also be suspended temporarily, particularly while precipitation is falling on Tuesday.
CenterPoint Energy Preparations
CenterPoint Energy is proactively preparing for the winter storm and has mobilized approximately 1,200 mutual aid workers to assist with power restoration in case of outages. These workers are staged at three key locations and are ready to respond quickly to impacted areas. Residents are encouraged to have backup power options and be prepared for potential power outages due to ice on power lines and trees.
How to Prepare
- Protect Your Pipes: Wrap exposed pipes, cover outdoor faucets, and let faucets drip to prevent freezing.
- Heater Safety: Use space heaters responsibly, keeping them at least 3 feet away from flammable materials. Never use stoves or ovens for heating.
- Driving Precautions: Avoid driving unless absolutely necessary. If you must drive, slow down, leave extra space between vehicles, and stay off icy bridges and overpasses.
- Stay Warm: Keep pets indoors, dress in layers, and check on elderly neighbors or those without access to reliable heating.

School Closures
Many school districts have announced closures for Tuesday, January 21, and Wednesday, January 22, including Houston ISD, Humble ISD, Katy ISD, Friendswood ISD, and Montgomery ISD. For the full list of closures, visit here.
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