Health
Cold Front Brings Hard Freeze Warning to Houston This Thursday
HOUSTON, Texas — A strong arctic cold front is set to arrive on Tuesday, bringing a mix of weather conditions that could culminate in a hard freeze warning for the Houston area on Thursday morning.
Forecasters predict that temperatures will fall drastically overnight, plunging into the low 20s by Thursday. Some northern areas may even experience lows in the teens. A hard freeze, defined as temperatures dropping to 24 degrees or lower for two hours or more, could harm outdoor plants and lead to burst pipes, prompting residents to prepare accordingly.
According to KHOU 11 Weather Team, rain is expected on Tuesday as the front approaches, with accumulations ranging from light to moderate. The rain will likely continue through lunchtime, intensifying during the evening commute. The cold front is anticipated to move into the area between 6 PM and midnight.
“The potential for significant temperature drops means residents need to get ready for freezing conditions by protecting vulnerable plants and ensuring their home plumbing is insulated,” a meteorologist from KHOU stated.
As the rain clears on Wednesday night, temperatures will plummet, and the region will be under a Weather Impact Alert Day due to these expected freezing conditions. Daytime highs on Thursday are projected to remain in the 40s, presenting a stark contrast to the upcoming mild weather expected next weekend.
Meanwhile, after experiencing record rainfall at Hobby Airport on Tuesday—totaling 2.2 inches and surpassing the previous record of 1.84 inches set in 1959—residents should brace for a notable transition to cold air.
On the heels of the cold front, the forecast shows a potentially milder outlook by the weekend, with highs returning to the 60s by Sunday. However, another cold front is expected shortly after, keeping temperatures fluctuating.
In light of the approaching cold snap, forecasters remind residents to monitor local weather updates and prepare for swiftly changing conditions that could impact travel and outdoor activities throughout the week.
