Houston Thaws From Significant Snowstorm

Roads around Houston this morning had some ice and slush but very little traffic. Image: Weatherbioy

Houston, Texas is thawing out from what the local National Weather Service is calling today’s significant snowstorm a “once in a generation” event. Generally 3-5″ of snow fell throughout the metro area, with heavier amounts falling over Louisiana. In addition to snow, there was also an accumulation of freezing rain and ice along and south of the I-10 corridor to the coast.

While temperatures rose above the freezing mark this afternoon, helping melt snow on roads, a fairly quick return of subfreezing and eventually dangerously cold temperatures overnight is forecast. Because of the expected temperatures, the National Weather Service has issued an Extreme Cold Warning has been issued through the overnight period with minimum wind chills of 10-15 degrees possible.

While roads were wet today, overpasses were frozen, covered in sheets of ice or accumulated snow that was difficult to melt during the afternoon sunshine. Image: Weatherboy — While roads were wet today, overpasses were frozen, covered in sheets of ice or accumulated snow that was difficult to melt during the afternoon sunshine. This is the view of I-69 over Caney Creek. Image: Weatherboy

With temperatures dropping well below freezing at night, any wet or slushy surfaces will freeze over.

“Travel should be delayed until road conditions become safe again,” the National Weather Service warns. Temperatures should rise above freezing throughout the Houston metro area by mid-morning.

Check out Houston, Texas first responders having a fun break during the significant once-in-a-generation snowstorm today! https://t.co/hIArJbQjqv

— the Weatherboy (@theWeatherboy) January 21, 2025

One reason for concern is that many Houston area highways are elevated, with high overpasses, bridges, and tollways that weren’t designed for wintry weather conditions. These elevated surfaces will freeze faster and stay below freezing longer, creating icy conditions whenever they’re wet or snow covered.

Many roads around Houston are elevated, such as this overpass near Sam Houston Parkway and I-69. Image: Weatherboy

Snow around Houston is rare, but they’ve had sizeable storms in the past. On February 14, 1895, the Houston area recorded an incredible 20″ of snow. In 2017, 2009, and 1968 each brought 1″ to the city. On January 11, 1973, 2″ fell. On January 22, 1940, 2.8″ fell. On January 30, 1949, 3.1″ fell. And on February 12, 1960, 4.4″ fell.

Today’s significant snow forced the closure of Houston’s two airports, George Bush Intercontinental Airport and the William P. Hobby Airport. Both expect to re-open at 9 am on Wednesday, with arrival flights starting at 10 am and departure flights starting at 11 am.