HOUSTON, Texas – (Que Onda Magazine) The winter chill gripped Houston Wednesday morning as temperatures dipped into the tens and 20s, creating icy hazards for commuters.
While the region avoids a hard freeze tonight, lingering upper 20s temperatures, combined with leftover moisture and freezing fog, continue to pose black ice risks, as reported by our news partner ABC13 Houston.
Why Is Black Ice Still a Problem?
Despite Wednesday’s sunshine bringing afternoon highs into the upper 40s, it wasn’t enough to fully melt the ice and snow on bridges and overpasses. Residual moisture and freezing fog are expected to refreeze once temperatures drop below freezing again, which could happen around 10 p.m. Drivers should exercise caution, especially in elevated areas prone to black ice.
What Is Freezing Fog?
Freezing fog forms when air temperatures are below 32 degrees. Unlike regular fog made of water droplets, freezing fog consists of tiny ice crystals. This unique formation can create small patches of black ice on bridges and overpasses, making driving more dangerous. The ice crystals also reduce visibility, creating additional challenges for motorists.
What’s in Store for the Weekend?
Starting Saturday, warmer Gulf air colliding with the cold ground will bring widespread fog, clouds, and drizzle. Temperatures will rise from the upper 30s to the 60s by Saturday afternoon, thanks to a lifting warm front. On Sunday, the city will experience milder mornings in the 50s, highs near 70 degrees, and an 80% chance of showers and thunderstorms. This marks the start of a wet weather pattern expected to last through most of next week.
Stay Prepared and Stay Safe
Houston residents should monitor road conditions, stay informed about weather updates, and drive cautiously during this transitional weather period.
Stay tuned to more weather forecasts along with us on QueOndaMagazine.com
