Houston, a city known for its mild winters, woke up to a shocking sight this morning: icy roads transforming routine commutes into hazardous undertakings. Overnight temperatures plunged below freezing, turning residual moisture from a recent storm into a treacherous, invisible glaze of ice. Particularly affected were bridges, overpasses, and shaded areas, leaving drivers struggling to navigate the unexpected challenge.
According to CW39, motorists were urged to reduce their speed and approach elevated surfaces cautiously, as these areas are prone to freezing rapidly and deceptively. The thin, nearly invisible ice layer caught many off guard, posing risks to even the most experienced drivers.
While the morning brought icy chaos, there is good news for Houston residents: a warming trend is on its way. Meteorologist Chita Craft of KHOU 11 predicted that temperatures would climb above freezing by mid-morning, around 10 or 11 a.m., offering much-needed relief. By the afternoon, the city is expected to enjoy clear skies and temperatures in the mid-40s, accelerating the melting process.
Yesterday’s weather conditions were equally harsh, with regions like Sugar Land experiencing lows of 19 degrees. Snow and sleet that fell Tuesday melted during the day, only to refreeze overnight in the biting cold. Downtown Houston and other shaded areas remain encased in ice, while bridges and overpasses—vulnerable to evaporative and radiational cooling—pose additional challenges due to their stubborn ice retention.
As sunlight and warmer air begin to alleviate the icy grip, Houstonians are reminded to remain vigilant. CW39 warns that shaded areas and elevated surfaces may still harbor patches of ice, even as midday temperatures rise.
This rare icy ordeal serves as a chilling reminder of how quickly weather can disrupt daily life, leaving a city unaccustomed to winter’s touch to grapple with its sudden arrival. Stay cautious and safe as Houston begins its thaw.
