A Winter Storm Watch and an Extreme Cold Advisory have been issued for the Greater Houston area as an arctic blast is set to impact the region from Saturday through Monday.
The weather is expected to remain mild with showery conditions until Friday. Cloudy skies with intermittent rain will continue as Gulf moisture lingers ahead of the Arctic front. While temperatures will stay above freezing through Friday, the atmosphere feels damp as the area prepares for an upcoming weather pattern shift.
The anticipated Arctic front will arrive early Saturday, bringing a significant drop in temperatures along with strong north winds. The Winter Storm Watch indicates the potential for sleet or ice on the roads due to a combination of moisture and freezing temperatures. The timeline for when temperatures are expected to fall below freezing in the Houston area is still uncertain, although areas north of the city may experience the chill earlier.
The primary concern lies in the overlap of moisture with the arrival of freezing temperatures late Saturday into Sunday. This could lead to the development of freezing rain or sleet, particularly north of the greater Houston area. Models show varying predictions regarding the onset of freezing conditions, making it difficult to pinpoint the exact type and coverage of precipitation.
As for the overall temperatures, dangerous cold is predicted, especially from Sunday night into Monday morning. Lows may plummet into the teens and low 20s, with wind chills potentially feeling as low as 5 to 15 degrees Fahrenheit. The potential for isolated power outages exists, so residents are advised to stay informed about updates. Viewers can follow the latest weather news through FOX 26, either online or via their free streaming app on mobile devices.
Staying safe during such weather conditions is crucial, and residents are encouraged to take precautions as they prepare for this significant cold snap.