A historic and potentially dangerous winter storm is poised to bring unprecedented sub-zero temperatures to Texas, with Houston expected to endure freezing conditions for up to three days. The National Weather Service has issued stark warnings as millions across the southern United States prepare for what could be the coldest spell in recent memory.
Unprecedented Cold for the Lone Star State
Forecasters predict that Houston, Texas's largest city with 2.4 million residents, will experience temperatures dropping below 32 degrees Fahrenheit from Saturday night through Monday night, with the possibility of extending into next week. This represents a dramatic departure from the region's typical winter climate, where temperatures rarely fall below the low sixties.
National Weather Service forecaster Cameron Batiste emphasised the severity of the approaching cold snap. "Subfreezing temperatures are expected area-wide Saturday night, Sunday night, and Monday night… and a few more nights into next week," he stated in his latest advisory.
Wind Chill Creates Dangerous Conditions
The situation becomes particularly concerning when wind chill factors are considered. Batiste warned that "when we factor in the northerly winds, things will feel A LOT colder." Wind chill values are expected to range from near 0 degrees in the Brazos Valley to the low to mid teens around the Houston metropolitan area.
"This would likely necessitate an extreme cold warning, so be sure that you have ways to stay warm even in the event of power outages," Batiste added, noting that northern areas face particular concern regarding electricity disruption.
Traumatic Memories of Winter Storm Uri
The current warnings evoke painful memories of February 2021's Winter Storm Uri, which caused catastrophic power grid failures across Texas. During that crisis, more than 4.5 million customers lost electricity, many for several days, while frozen and burst pipes left countless residents without running water.
The human cost was devastating. Official state figures place the death toll at 246, with victims ranging from infants to centenarians. However, subsequent investigations suggested the true number was significantly higher, as many medical examiners failed to recognise how extreme cold exacerbated pre-existing health conditions.
Grocery stores experienced severe shortages as panic buying emptied shelves, forcing aid organisations to distribute emergency boxes containing non-perishable items to vulnerable communities.
Grid Improvements and Continued Vulnerabilities
Texas Governor Greg Abbott, who has issued a disaster declaration for 134 counties, sought to reassure residents about the state's preparedness. "The ERCOT grid has never been stronger, never been more prepared, and is fully capable of handling this winter storm," he declared at a recent press conference.
Despite these assurances, Abbott acknowledged that localized power outages remain possible if freezing rain causes power lines to ice over in specific areas. The state's power infrastructure, while improved since 2021, still faces significant challenges during extreme weather events.
Widespread Impact Across Southern States
The impending storm system extends far beyond Texas, affecting approximately 160 million people—nearly half of the United States population—who are currently under various winter weather watches, warnings, and alerts.
The southern United States faces particularly severe conditions, with up to an inch of freezing rain expected across Texas, the Carolinas, and Virginia. The Weather Channel has issued its most severe "crippling" ice warning for parts of Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, and Tennessee.
Snow accumulation could reach 24 inches in Arkansas and Tennessee, while the Great Plains and Tennessee Valley anticipate significant snow and ice that will likely disrupt travel throughout the weekend and into the coming week.
Emergency Preparedness Recommendations
Experts and emergency organisations are urging residents to prepare thoroughly for potential extended power outages. The Red Cross recommends assembling comprehensive emergency kits containing essential supplies.
Key recommendations include:
- Stocking up on non-perishable food and one gallon of water per person
- Securing alternative heat sources, blankets, and warm clothing
- Preparing battery-powered flashlights and radios
- Maintaining a seven-day supply of necessary medications
- Keeping portable phone chargers available
- Documenting emergency contact information
The organisation also suggests purchasing inexpensive Styrofoam coolers and ice to preserve refrigerated food if electricity fails for extended periods.
As Texas and neighbouring states brace for this extraordinary weather event, residents are being urged to take all necessary precautions to ensure their safety during what forecasters predict will be a prolonged period of dangerously cold conditions.
