Space City Weather Answers Your Questions on the Impending Freeze

The Houston area is preparing for potential severe weather this weekend as an Arctic front approaches. As forecasters analyze the incoming cold air mass, residents are left with many questions about the possibility of a hard freeze and icy roads.

Key Concerns for Houston Residents

With less than a week to go, the Houston area is bracing for what could be significant freezing rain, especially north of Highway 105. This weather pattern is expected to begin late on Friday.

Freezing Rain and Ice Accumulation

• Freezing rain is anticipated along and north of Highway 105 starting Friday night.
• Travel to cities such as Dallas and Austin is discouraged after Friday afternoon due to worsening road conditions.
• In areas further north, sleet and possibly snow may occur, contributing to hazardous travel.

For the central Houston area, temperatures may remain just above freezing for longer. Freezing conditions in Harris County are likely not to arrive until Saturday morning or possibly Saturday evening, delaying the risk of icy roads.

Risk of a Hard Freeze

Residents should prepare for a hard freeze on Sunday and Monday mornings, with temperatures potentially dropping below 25 degrees. While risks are highest north of Interstate 10, areas closer to the coast should not be dismissed.

• Take precautions to protect exposed pipes as low temperatures approach.
• This situation is not expected to replicate the extreme cold experienced in February 2021.

Power Supply and Potential Outages

The risk of power outages is a common concern during severe weather conditions. The two critical areas for potential failures are power generation and distribution. Texas has adequate generation capacity, thanks to ERCOT forecasts for sufficient electricity supply during this cold spell.

• Past severe weather, like the February 2021 freeze, highlighted vulnerabilities in power generation.
• During a storm, distribution channels may also face challenges, particularly from ice accumulation on trees and power lines.

While widespread outages are not anticipated, residents should remain vigilant and prepared.

Travel and Airport Concerns

Travelers are keeping a close eye on airport services as the freeze approaches. Early forecasts suggest that air travel could proceed normally on Friday and much of Saturday. However, the situation will depend on when freezing temperatures begin to take hold.

• Expected disruptions may occur Saturday evening through Monday morning as conditions worsen.
• Normal operations should resume once temperatures rise above freezing on Sunday.

Residents can expect further updates on the weather conditions, which will provide additional clarity as the weekend approaches.