Houston Under Winter storm Watch: Live Updates
Updated: January 25, 2026, 09:46 AM CST – A important winter storm is impacting the Houston metropolitan area, bringing freezing rain, icy conditions, and hazardous travel. Meteorologist Chris Ramirez is tracking the storm’s movement and providing live updates.
Current Conditions
As of 9:30 AM CST, freezing rain is falling across much of Harris County and surrounding areas. Temperatures are hovering around 30-32°F ( -1 to 0°C), creating a hazardous situation for drivers and pedestrians. Icing is reported on bridges, overpasses, and elevated surfaces. The National Weather Service (https://www.weather.gov/) has issued a Winter Storm Warning for the region, effective untill 6:00 PM CST.
Impacts and Hazards
- Travel Disruptions: Numerous road closures have been reported due to icy conditions.The Texas Department of Transportation (https://www.txdot.gov/) is actively working to treat roadways,but travel is strongly discouraged.
- Power Outages: CenterPoint Energy (https://www.centerpointenergy.com/) reports over 25,000 customers are currently without power due to downed power lines caused by ice accumulation. Crews are working to restore service, but outages could be prolonged.
- School Closures: Most school districts in the houston area, including houston ISD, Katy ISD, and Cy-Fair ISD, have announced school closures for today. Check with your local school district for specific details.
- airport Delays: Both George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) and William P. Hobby airport (HOU) are experiencing significant flight delays and cancellations. Passengers are advised to check with their airlines before heading to the airport. (https://www.fly2houston.com/)
Meteorologist Chris Ramirez’s Forecast
“The freezing rain is expected to continue through the early afternoon hours,” says Meteorologist Ramirez. “Accumulation could reach up to a quarter of an inch of ice in some areas, leading to widespread power outages and extremely dangerous travel conditions. Temperatures are expected to slowly rise above freezing this evening, but the ice will likely remain a hazard through the night.” Ramirez emphasizes the importance of staying home and avoiding needless travel.
Safety precautions
Authorities urge residents to take the following precautions:
- Stay home if possible.
- If you must travel, drive slowly and cautiously.
- Be aware of black ice, which is nearly invisible.
- Check on elderly neighbors and those with disabilities.
- Conserve energy to help prevent power outages.
- Never use a generator indoors.
- Report downed power lines to CenterPoint Energy instantly.
Resources
- City of Houston Emergency Details: https://houstonemergency.org/
- Harris County Office of Homeland Security & Emergency Management: https://www.readyharris.org/
- National Weather Service – Houston/Galveston: https://www.weather.gov/hgx/
This is a developing story. Stay tuned to world-today-news.com for the latest updates.
