After a bitterly cold January, many Houstonians are asking the same question: Are we in for another deep freeze before winter is over
The city saw multiple days of subfreezing temperatures in January, making it the coldest start to the year since 2018. With memories of Houston’s devastating February 2021 freeze still fresh, people are understandably anxious about what the rest of winter could bring.
So, will February bring another Arctic blast, or are we finally in the clear? Here’s what the experts are saying.
January’s Cold Snap: A Look Back
Houston started 2025 with an unusually cold January, experiencing nine days of below-freezing temperatures. A particularly harsh cold stretch from January 19-24 made it one of the coldest months the city has seen in years.
Compared to recent winters, this was a stark reminder that Houston isn’t immune to severe cold. The icy conditions caused frozen pipes, dangerous roads, and power outages in some areas.
With February now in full swing, Houstonians want to know: Is another brutal freeze on the horizon, or has winter finally loosened its grip?
February’s Forecast: What to Expect
February in Houston can be unpredictable. Some years, it feels like spring arrives early, while other years bring shocking cold fronts.
Currently, long-range forecasts suggest that February 2025 will be milder than usual. The National Weather Service’s Climate Prediction Center is forecasting above-average temperatures for Southeast Texas, meaning another deep freeze is unlikely—though not impossible.
However, experts caution that cold snaps can still happen. While a repeat of the 2021 disaster isn’t expected, it’s always wise to stay prepared for sudden weather shifts.
Could the Polar Vortex Bring Another Arctic Blast?
One major factor influencing Houston’s winter weather is the polar vortex—a swirling mass of frigid air around the North Pole.
When the polar vortex weakens, Arctic air escapes and plunges deep into the U.S., sometimes reaching as far south as Texas. That’s exactly what happened during the February 2021 freeze, when Houston’s temperatures dropped to record lows.
This year, however, the polar vortex remains strong and intact, meaning Arctic air is staying trapped over the North Pole instead of spilling southward.
This significantly reduces the chance of another Houston freeze in February.
So, Will Houston Freeze Again This Winter?
While January brought plenty of cold, February’s forecast looks much warmer, with above-average temperatures expected for the rest of the month.
But that doesn’t mean we’re completely in the clear. Houston’s weather is notoriously unpredictable, and quick cold snaps can still happen.
