Houston rolled out of bed Sunday, February 1, to a hard slap of winter, with clear skies and temperatures hovering near 32°F across much of the metro. The cold start will not last long, though, as sunshine and a high near 54°F are on tap this afternoon with light southerly breezes sneaking back in. If you have potted plants or exposed outdoor pipes, this is the moment to cover or drain them, since inland spots will stay coldest until the sun really goes to work.
Freeze Warning Through This Morning
A Freeze Warning is posted through 9 a.m. CST Sunday, with frost and hard freeze conditions possible in many inland neighborhoods. Forecasters caution that unprotected outdoor plumbing and tender plants are vulnerable and should be insulated or covered as soon as possible. For county-specific information and updated advisories, check the latest from the National Weather Service Houston/Galveston.
Warming Centers And City Services
The City of Houston has opened several warming centers and is urging residents to call 311 for information on transportation options and shelter locations. The centers will provide blankets, snacks and basic services while the cold hangs around, and officials are asking residents to use 311 to find the closest available site. Riders who depend on public transit should keep an eye on Metro alerts, since some routes or schedules could be trimmed if conditions deteriorate.
Quick Warm-Up Then A Chance Of Storms
The cold snap will be short-lived. Monday is expected to be mostly sunny with highs in the upper 60s, and by Tuesday, readings should climb into the low 70s ahead of a front that will bring showers and a chance of thunderstorms from late Tuesday into Tuesday night. Anyone planning outdoor events on Tuesday should follow the forecast and be prepared for brief heavy downpours in a few storms. Drier and milder conditions are forecast to settle back in by Wednesday.
What To Pack And Watch For
Layer up for Sunday morning, since a light jacket will feel more than enough by midday, and watch for any slick spots early on the commute. Bring in tender plants or wrap them well, and consider checking on elderly neighbors or anyone who could be at risk if their heat fails. This story will be updated if watches or warnings change during the week.
