Houston and Southeast Texas brace for a severe winter storm, with ice and freezing temperatures expected to cause widespread disruption. ABC13 Weather Alert is activated, providing real-time updates and critical information for residents and businesses.
The arctic front moving into the region has triggered Winter Storm Alerts, effective from Saturday morning to Sunday evening. Freezing rain is forecast to reach the Gulf Coast, leading to potential power outages and hazardous travel conditions.
An Extreme Cold Warning is in effect from Saturday to Monday, with temperatures expected to drop significantly. This could result in a hard freeze and wind chills below zero, posing risks to both infrastructure and public safety.
Businesses in Houston are taking precautions, closing their doors and canceling services to prepare for icy roads and potential power outages. CenterPoint Energy has mobilized a large workforce, including 1,500 trucks and crews from nine states, to respond to outages and emergencies.
The utility company estimates around 100,000 to 200,000 outages over the next few days, based on data from previous storms. This could lead to significant challenges for the region's power grid.
Airports in Houston are also affected, with over 200 flights canceled as of Saturday evening. Deicing operations are underway at George Bush Intercontinental and William P. Hobby Airports, and emergency response teams are coordinating efforts.
Travelers are advised to monitor conditions, stay informed with their airlines, and plan their commutes accordingly. The airports are not shelters, and passengers should directly contact their airlines for any travel changes.
The severe weather conditions are expected to cause significant disruptions, with freezing rain leading to ice accumulation on trees and overpasses. Residents and businesses must prepare for a challenging weekend, with potential power outages and hazardous travel conditions.
