Extreme Cold Prompts School Closures in Houston

Due to concerns over extreme cold and wind chill conditions, several schools in Houston, Texas, including the Houston Independent School District (HISD), will be closing all campuses and facilities on Tuesday, January 16th, 2024. This decision comes in addition to schools being already closed on Monday in observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day.

In light of the winter storm system currently affecting Houston, icy streets have caused hazardous road conditions, prompting the closure of numerous schools and highways. The low temperatures, dipping to the teens and low 20s overnight, are expected to lead to a hard freeze. Wind gusts of 20-30 mph will result in single-digit wind chills for Houston early Tuesday. A Wind Chill Advisory and a Wind Chill Warning are in effect for several counties including Walker, Grimes, and Washington.

Although the frozen precipitation is expected to reduce, icy road conditions will persist with various thoroughfares remaining closed until further notice. Residents are urged to exercise extreme caution when traveling. Temperatures are expected to briefly rise above freezing Tuesday afternoon, aiding in the melting of ice. However, another hard freeze is expected Wednesday morning, followed by a gradual thaw.

By Wednesday afternoon, it is anticipated that all ice will have melted as temperatures climb close to 50 degrees. Subsequently, Thursday will see a significant jump in temperatures, nearing 70 degrees ahead of a front.

Stay warm and safe during these challenging weather conditions, and remember to stay informed by tuning into our coverage across all platforms. Additionally, be sure to check out FOX Local, our smart TV app, for exclusive continuous coverage and special features dedicated to this winter storm system.