If you’ve been enjoying the mild winter so far, brace yourself—Houston’s weather is about to take a sharp and unpleasant turn. A strong cold front has arrived, bringing unseasonably cold temperatures, gusty winds, and an increased risk of rain and thunderstorms through the weekend.
For many Houstonians, this kind of temperature drop is unexpected, and it could cause more than just discomfort. The city is currently under a Cold Weather Advisory, and some areas are facing a Flood Warning due to the incoming rain and already saturated ground.
Here’s what’s happening, what’s coming next, and most importantly, how you can stay safe.
Current Conditions in Houston
Right now, the city is feeling much colder than usual for this time of year. This isn’t just a mild dip in temperatures—it’s a significant cold snap, with conditions that could create problems if you’re not prepared.
- Temperature: 36°F (2°C)
- Sky Conditions: Overcast, cloudy
- Wind: Blowing from the northeast at 10 mph, with occasional gusts reaching 20 mph
The cold and wind combination makes it feel even chillier outside, so if you have to step out, bundle up and dress in layers.
What’s Coming Next? A Cold & Stormy Weekend
The frigid air is here to stay for at least a couple of days, and the weather is expected to become more active and unpredictable as we move into the weekend.
Here’s the detailed breakdown of what to expect:
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Friday Night:
- Cloudy skies will persist, keeping things gloomy and cold.
- The temperature will hover around 37°F (3°C) overnight.
- Winds will continue at 5 to 10 mph, making it feel even colder.
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Saturday:
- A 50% chance of rain develops, with showers most likely in the afternoon.
- High temperatures will struggle to reach 47°F (8°C).
- The northeast wind remains steady at 5 to 10 mph.
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Saturday Night:
- Rain and potential thunderstorms move in, with an 80% chance of precipitation.
- Temperatures will drop to 43°F (6°C).
- Some areas may experience heavy downpours, increasing the risk of localized flooding.
Weather Alerts & Safety Warnings
Houston residents should be aware of two important weather alerts currently in effect:
Cold Weather Advisory – In place until Friday at noon, urging people to take necessary precautions to stay warm.
Flood Warning – Some low-lying areas, including Trinity County, are at risk of flooding due to the combination of cold temperatures, rain, and already saturated ground.
How to Stay Safe & Prepare for the Weather
With freezing temperatures and rain in the forecast, now is the time to prepare. Here are the essential steps you should take to stay safe:
Protect Plants & Pets – If you have plants outside, cover them or bring them inside. Pets should not be left outside in this cold weather—make sure they have a warm place to stay.
Prevent Frozen Pipes – Cold temperatures can cause pipes to freeze, which could lead to bursts and costly repairs. Let faucets drip slightly and open cabinet doors to let warm air circulate around your plumbing.
Dress in Layers – If you have to go outside, wear multiple layers of clothing to trap body heat. A thick coat, gloves, and a hat are highly recommended.
Watch for Flooding – If you live in a flood-prone area, stay alert for updates and avoid driving through flooded streets. Just a few inches of water can stall your car or sweep it away.
When Will It Warm Up Again?
The good news is that this deep freeze won’t last forever. By Sunday, temperatures will start climbing again, with highs reaching the upper 50s.
By early next week, Houston could see highs in the 60s and even 70s, bringing a welcome return to milder conditions. However, rain is still in the forecast, which means the risk of localized flooding remains a concern as all this cold, wet weather transitions into a warmer system.
Final Thoughts: Be Prepared & Stay Informed
Houston is about to go through a dramatic weather shift, with freezing temperatures, rain, and storms all hitting within a short time frame. The combination of cold air, gusty winds, and precipitation could make for dangerous conditions, especially for those unprepared.
Don’t take this weather lightly. Make sure you’re dressed warmly, protecting your home and pets, and staying on top of any emergency alerts from local weather stations.
