A Winter Storm Watch has been officially issued for Houston, Texas, as a powerful winter system threatens to bring freezing rain, sleet, and dangerously cold temperatures to Southeast Texas this weekend. According to the latest update from the National Weather Service, conditions are becoming favorable for a significant winter weather event as part of Winter Storm January 2026, also known as Winter Storm Fern.
Residents across the Houston metro area and surrounding counties are urged to closely monitor the evolving weather forecast snow storm and prepare for potentially hazardous conditions.
Winter Storm Watch: What It Means for Houston
The Winter Storm Watch is in effect from Saturday morning through Sunday afternoon, covering Harris County and much of Southeast Texas. This alert signals an increased risk of impactful winter weather, including freezing rain and sleet, which could make roads extremely dangerous.
Key Impacts Expected
- Rain transitioning to freezing rain and sleet
- Ice accumulation on roads, bridges, and power lines
- Risk of power outages
- Hazardous travel conditions across the Houston area
This developing storm this weekend could be especially disruptive for a region not accustomed to prolonged winter weather.
Houston Weather & Space City Weather Outlook
The latest Houston weather and Space City weather forecasts show temperatures falling rapidly late Saturday as arctic air pushes into Texas. While snowfall is expected to be minimal in Houston, ice is the primary concern.
- Overnight temperature values may drop to near or below freezing
- Elevated surfaces and untreated roads will ice over first
- Local officials are monitoring conditions closely amid concerns of a possible Texas state of emergency if impacts escalate
Residents should continue checking weather Houston, local weather forecast, and live radar updates through the weekend.
Texas Weather: Austin and Statewide Concerns
Across the state, Texas weather conditions will vary, but impacts are expected to be widespread.
- Weather Austin forecasts indicate sleet and freezing rain potential
- Central and East Texas face the highest ice risk
- North Texas may see more wintry mix and light snow
This weekend snow storm could disrupt travel across major highways and urban corridors statewide.
Winter Storm Fern Forecast Track
The Winter Storm Fern forecast track shows the system developing over the Southern Plains before moving eastward. As warmer Gulf moisture collides with cold arctic air, conditions become ideal for ice storms across Texas and heavy snow farther north.
Meteorologists warn that even small changes in the track could significantly impact how much ice Houston receives.
Weather for This Weekend & 10-Day Forecast
Short-Term Forecast
- Friday: Rain develops, temperatures begin falling
- Saturday–Sunday: Peak storm impacts, freezing rain possible
- Monday: Clearing skies but lingering cold air
Weather 10 Day / 10 Day Forecast
The weather 10 day outlook suggests below-average temperatures will persist even after the storm exits, keeping the region vulnerable to refreezing hazards.
How to Prepare for an Ice Storm
Knowing how to prepare for an ice storm is critical ahead of this event:
- Stock food, water, and medications
- Protect exposed pipes from freezing
- Charge phones and backup power banks
- Avoid unnecessary travel during icy conditions
- Monitor local weather, alerts, and radar frequently
Emergency officials stress that preparation now can prevent dangerous situations later.
Impacts & Preparedness
- The primary hazard is ice buildup on roads, bridges, and power lines, which can lead to hazardous travel and possible power outages.
- This Winter Storm Watch is a heads-up that conditions are favorable for winter hazards, not a guarantee that all watched areas will definitely see significant freezing precipitation.
- Residents should stay tuned to updated forecasts and be ready to take action if the watch is upgraded to a Winter Storm Warning.
With a Winter Storm Watch now active, Houston and much of Southeast Texas face a serious winter weather threat. This snowstorm this weekend—driven by Winter Storm January 2026—has the potential to disrupt travel, utilities, and daily routines.
Stay alert, follow official guidance, and continue monitoring the weather through trusted local weather forecast sources as conditions evolve.