An extreme cold warning remains in effect for the Houston area through noon Tuesday, as another hard freeze is expected overnight, icy bridges linger, and warming centers continue to shelter thousands, officials said.
On Monday morning, Houston temperatures were in the 20s, prompting an Extreme Cold Warning until midday Tuesday. Meteorologists warn people of another severe freeze overnight and lasting ice on highways and bridges.
The National Weather Service predicts a brief thaw on Monday afternoon with temperatures in the mid-30s to low-40s. Monday night should bring another dip in temps. Early Tuesday temperatures could dip to 26 degrees, heightening traffic and safety issues.
While some ice from Sunday has melted, National Weather Service Houston/Galveston meteorologist Matt Moreland warned that dangerous conditions remain, especially on elevated routes.
Moreland reported on Houston Matters that Houston's midday temps reached the mid-20s yesterday, one of the coldest days in recent history. “However, ice evaporates.” The material sticks better on bridges and overpasses.
CenterPoint Energy reported 1,400 residents and businesses without electricity around 10 a.m. Monday. The weather agency warns that hazardous traffic conditions may persist into Monday AM in icy locations where temperatures have yet to rise.
Forecasters warn locals to protect the “four Ps”—people, pets, pipes, and plants—and stay careful as frigid weather lingers. On Tuesday, the warning will expire at midday, but temperatures will plummet near freezing Tuesday night, especially north of Interstate 10. Moreland expects temperatures to rise later in the week, but a cold front may arrive Thursday or Friday.
He said, “We are monitoring the trends closely, as this situation is still several days away.” The current weather system is not causing wintry precipitation, according to officials.
As shelter needs rise, city and county officials continue to use warming centers. Houston Mayor John Whitmire said 1,200 people had used the city's 12 warming facilities since the weekend. He said these facilities will run until noon on Tuesday.
“The positive development is that we now have backup generators at all 12 locations,” Whitmire told Hello Houston. “The focus remains on navigating tonight's challenges.” Tonight should be brutally cold.
Harris County opened eight new shelters, including the Bayland Community Center, where John Taylor sought sanctuary after storm-related power disruptions.
“I appreciate their efforts and support,” Taylor said. There is a need for further effort.
Officials said cold risks may persist until Tuesday morning despite weather moderating later in the week.
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