Texas Gulf Coast Faces Pipe-Bursting Hard Freeze as Temperatures Plunge Into Teens Sunday Night
TEXAS — A dangerous hard freeze is expected to grip Southeast Texas and the Upper Texas Coast late Sunday night into Monday morning, with temperatures forecast to fall into the teens and lower 20s across the Houston metro area and surrounding communities. Forecasters warn that this level of cold poses a serious pipe-bursting risk and could create lingering travel hazards after the weekend winter storm.
Temperatures Drop Well Below Normal Across Southeast Texas
Forecast lows show temperatures falling to:
- Near 20°F in Houston, Sugar Land, Pearland, and Pasadena
- Mid to upper teens in Conroe, Tomball, Brenham, and College Station
- Lower 20s along the immediate coast, including Galveston and Port Arthur
These readings are more than 20 degrees below normal for late January and cold enough to burst exposed copper and PVC pipes, especially in homes with plumbing in exterior walls or attics.
Wind Chills Push Cold Into Dangerous Territory
Although winds will not be extreme, continued airflow early Monday morning will push wind chill values into the single digits and teens, increasing the risk of hypothermia for people, pets, and livestock left unprotected.
Officials stress that even brief exposure in these conditions can be dangerous, particularly for those without adequate shelter or heat.
Hard Freeze Follows Weekend Winter Weather
This freeze arrives after winter precipitation impacts Saturday and Sunday, meaning roads, bridges, and walkways that ice over may remain frozen into Monday morning. Even if snowfall or ice ends earlier, refreezing overnight will keep travel hazardous during the Monday morning commute.
Drivers are urged to use caution, especially on elevated surfaces and untreated roadways.
Pipes, Sprinklers, and Outdoor Systems at Risk
Residents across Southeast Texas should take immediate steps to protect property, including:
- Insulating exposed pipes
- Dripping faucets overnight
- Shutting down and winterizing sprinkler systems
- Protecting pools and outdoor plumbing
Forecasters emphasize that Sunday may not climb above freezing in some locations, limiting any chance for pipes to thaw before the coldest air arrives.
Bottom Line: A Rare and Dangerous Cold Event for the Texas Coast
This is not a routine cold snap for the Texas Gulf Coast. Temperatures in the teens are unusual and potentially destructive, particularly when combined with recent winter precipitation.
Residents across Houston, Galveston, Beaumont, College Station, and surrounding communities should prepare now to protect homes, pets, and loved ones. Stay with SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com for verified U.S. weather impacts and continued updates as this hard freeze approaches.
