Texas Braces for Overnight Light Freeze as Temperatures Fall Near 30 Degrees Across the Houston Region

TEXAS — A light freeze is expected to settle across the Houston area tonight, prompting weather officials to urge residents to protect pets, plants, and exposed outdoor pipes as temperatures dip to levels not seen since early winter. Forecast lows between 29° and 32°F are expected from late Tuesday into early Wednesday, marking a sharp cool-down following last week’s unusually warm 80-degree weather.

Temperatures Across the Region Expected to Hit Freezing

Forecast maps show widespread freezing temperatures across Southeast Texas, including:

• 31°F in College Station, Brenham, Katy, Tomball, La Grange, and Columbus
• 30°F in Navasota, Cleveland, Woodville, Hallettsville, and Victoria
• 32°F in Livingston, Conroe, Humble, Sugar Land, and Port Arthur
• 34°F in Houston, Pasadena, and Palacios
• 43°F in Galveston, where the coastal influence keeps temperatures slightly warmer

These numbers represent a significant drop from Houston’s normal low of 44°F, highlighting how unusually cold the night will be for the region.

Residents Urged to Protect Pets, Plants, and Exposed Pipes

Meteorologists warn that even a brief light freeze can cause damage if residents are not prepared. Authorities advise:

• Providing warm, insulated shelter for outdoor pets
• Covering or bringing in cold-sensitive plants
• Re-wrapping exterior water pipes, especially if insulation was removed during last week’s warm spell

Officials emphasize that freezing temperatures may last long enough to threaten unprotected vegetation and plumbing, particularly in rural or low-lying areas where cold air settles more quickly.

Light Freeze Expected Before Significant Warmup

The cold snap is expected to be short-lived. Forecast discussions indicate that after Wednesday morning, a notable warmup will move into the region heading into New Year’s celebrations.

Still, weather experts caution that tonight is the last opportunity to complete freeze preparations. Any moisture on roadways or elevated bridges could also briefly freeze, though widespread travel impacts are not anticipated.

Why the Sudden Temperature Drop?

Meteorologists attribute the freeze to a strong push of dry, cold air that moved into Texas behind a passing front. Clear skies and light winds overnight will allow temperatures to fall quickly, creating ideal conditions for a radiational freeze.

This phenomenon is typical during early winter in Texas, but the rapid swing from 80°F warmth to freezing temperatures can increase risk because residents often become unprepared for sudden cold.

Residents Encouraged to Stay Informed

Local weather services urge Texans to monitor updated forecasts overnight and take action immediately to avoid preventable damage or cold-related harm to animals. NapervilleLocal.com will continue tracking weather developments across the region as conditions evolve.