Arctic Blast To Unleash Ice, Frigid Temps

A powerful Arctic front is expected to move through Southeast Texas from midday Saturday through Sunday, ushering in a dramatic and rapid drop in temperatures accompanied by gusty north winds. The National Weather Service has issued multiple alerts, including a Winter Storm Warning for much of Southeast Texas, an Ice Storm Warning for Polk, San Jacinto, and Walker counties, and an Extreme Cold Warning for the entire region.

These warnings highlight the significant risk of freezing rain, sleet, and dangerously cold air as the front interacts with lingering moisture. While precise timing for temperatures to fall below freezing varies, the coldest air and highest ice risk are anticipated late Saturday night and Sunday morning, concluding Sunday afternoon. Freezing temperatures are expected to persist throughout Sunday, with a major concern for ice accumulation, especially on elevated roadways and bridges.

Localized power outages are possible due to ice accumulating on trees and power lines. Additionally, wind chills are forecast to be dangerously low, potentially reaching single digits to teens on Sunday and early Monday, posing a risk of hypothermia and potential water pipe damage if protective measures are not taken.