Houston Freeze: Closures, Services, Warming Centers

**Greater Houston Braces for Historic Freeze: Widespread Closures, Warming Centers Activated as Temperatures Plummet**

HOUSTON, TX – Greater Houston is hunkering down for what the National Weather Service is calling a “historically significant” hard freeze, with a Hard Freeze Warning in effect through Sunday, January 25, 2026. Forecasts indicate temperatures will plunge into the low teens and low 20s across much of Southeast Texas, with dangerous wind chill values potentially dropping to zero degrees Fahrenheit or below. This severe cold snap has prompted widespread closures, service adjustments, and the activation of numerous warming centers throughout the region for Monday, January 26, and Tuesday, January 27.

**Weather Alert: Dangerous Cold Through Sunday**
The National Weather Service (NWS) Houston/Galveston office warns residents to prepare for prolonged freezing conditions. “This isn’t just a cold snap; it’s an extended hard freeze with potentially life-threatening wind chills,” an NWS spokesperson stated. “Exposure to these conditions without proper protection can lead to hypothermia and frostbite in a short amount of time. We urge everyone to stay indoors if possible and take all necessary precautions.” The NWS forecast anticipates the coldest temperatures on Monday morning, with a gradual warming trend not expected until late Tuesday or early Wednesday.

**Schools and Government Offices Shut Down**
Due to hazardous road conditions and extreme temperatures, a comprehensive list of school districts and government entities have announced closures:

* **School Districts:** All major school districts in the Greater Houston area, including Houston ISD, Cypress-Fairbanks ISD, Katy ISD, Conroe ISD, Fort Bend ISD, and Lamar CISD, have announced full closures for Monday, January 26. Many, such as HISD, Cy-Fair, and Katy ISD, have extended these closures through Tuesday, January 27, canceling all extracurricular activities and athletic events. Parents, students, and staff are strongly advised to check their specific district’s official website and communication channels for the most up-to-date information regarding return to school.
* **Government Operations:**
* **Harris County:** All Harris County offices will be closed on January 26 and January 27. The Commissioners Court meeting originally scheduled for January 26 has been postponed to Wednesday, January 28, at 10 a.m. The Harris County Civil and Family Courts will also remain shut down through January 27.
* **City of Houston:** City of Houston municipal offices will be closed on January 26 and January 27. Essential services will continue to operate.
* **Fort Bend County, Montgomery County, Waller County, Brazoria County, and Galveston County:** Offices for these counties are all closed on January 26, with many extending closures to January 27. Residents are encouraged to visit their respective county websites for definitive closure dates and emergency service information.

**Public Transportation Impacts**
METRO Houston anticipates significant service disruptions for both light rail and local buses, particularly due to the likelihood of icy road conditions. “Our priority is the safety of our riders and operators,” a METRO representative stated. “We expect delays, detours, and potential cancellations. Riders should prepare for limited service and check METRO’s website (RideMETRO.org) or sign up for service alerts before attempting to travel.” The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) has also warned motorists of potential bridge and overpass icing and urged residents to avoid non-essential travel.

**Warming Centers Activated Across the Region**
To ensure residents have safe, warm places to shelter, numerous warming centers have been activated:

* **City of Houston:** The City of Houston opened several warming centers starting at 6 p.m. on Sunday, January 25, and will operate them through the duration of the freeze.
* **George R. Brown Convention Center (GRB):** Located at 1001 Avenida de las Americas, the GRB is serving as a primary 24/7 warming center, welcoming individuals and families. Pets are generally allowed at the GRB warming center.
* **Multi-Service Centers:** The Acres Homes Multi-Service Center, Sunnyside Multi-Service Center, and Spring Branch Family Development Center will be open daily from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. through January 28.
* **Houston Public Library Branches:** Select Houston Public Library branches are also serving as warming centers with specific hours, some for January 26 only, and others through January 27. A full list of locations and hours can be found on the City of Houston Office of Emergency Management website.
* **Harris County:** Additional warming centers are available throughout Harris County. Residents can find locations by calling 211 or visiting the Harris County Office of Emergency Management website.
* **Fort Bend County:** The county has designated warming centers, including the Fort Bend County Fairgrounds (if needed). Check Fort Bend County’s website for activated locations.
* **Montgomery County:** Multiple warming centers are open across Montgomery County. Information is available via the Montgomery County Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Management.
* **Galveston County:** The Galveston Island Convention Center is providing shelter, among other designated sites across the county. Details are available on the Galveston County Office of Emergency Management website.

**Safety First: Critical Precautions for Residents**
Emergency management officials are stressing the “Four P’s” to ensure safety during the freeze:

* **Pipes:** Drip faucets slowly to prevent pipes from freezing and bursting. Disconnect hoses from outdoor spigots and cover exposed pipes.
* **Plants:** Bring sensitive plants indoors or cover them with blankets or burlap.
* **Pets:** Bring pets indoors. If they must remain outside, ensure they have adequate shelter, food, and unfrozen water.
* **People:** Check on elderly neighbors, children, and vulnerable individuals. Dress in layers, limit time outdoors, and be aware of frostbite and hypothermia symptoms.

Residents using space heaters are reminded to follow safety guidelines: keep them away from flammable materials, do not use extension cords, and never leave them unattended. Carbon monoxide detectors are essential, as portable generators or outdoor heating devices used indoors can be deadly.

**Power Outages and Emergency Contacts**
CenterPoint Energy has prepared for potential power outages due to increased demand or ice accumulation. Residents are advised to have an emergency kit ready, including flashlights, extra batteries, and blankets. Outages can be reported to CenterPoint Energy online or by calling 713-207-2222. For non-life-threatening emergencies, residents can call 311 (City of Houston) or 211 (State of Texas for resource referrals). In the event of a life-threatening emergency, always call 911.

The region is expected to remain under the grip of the hard freeze through Sunday, with conditions slowly moderating into late Tuesday. Residents are urged to stay informed through local news channels, official city and county websites, and emergency alerts. Plan for delays, prioritize safety, and make use of the resources available to stay warm and safe.