TEXAS — As a potent winter storm approaches this weekend, Texas faces not just snow and sleet but a real risk of freezing rain and ice, especially across North, Central and parts of Southeast Texas.
Meteorologists say the combination of an Arctic air mass moving in over lingering rain could create icy roadways and hazardous conditions that last into the start of next week, prompting early considerations of potential school closures or delayed openings.
Ice and Freeze Risk Across the State
Forecast models and National Weather Service guidance show that as the winter system arrives Friday and Saturday, temperatures will drop rapidly into the 20s and 30s statewide. This sets up a scenario where freezing rain and sleet are likely in many populated areas, including North Texas and the I-35 corridor, with ice accumulations possibly reaching around 0.10–0.25 inches in parts of Central Texas such as the Hill Country and Waco area.
In Houston and other parts of Southeast Texas, forecasts suggest that icy road conditions are likely by Saturday evening, with freezing rain and sleet expected to create slick bridges and overpasses — conditions that often trigger transportation delays and safety concerns.
Impact on Schools
School districts across the region are already monitoring weather trends and preparing for decisions on closures or schedule changes as winter weather approaches. In the Dallas-Fort Worth area, administrators are assessing conditions because icy roads and severe cold could make travel unsafe for buses and students early next week.
Local education officials typically begin making closure or delay decisions 24–36 hours in advance based on the latest forecasts. If ice accumulates and temperatures remain below freezing through Sunday and into Monday, many districts could announce closures or remote learning days to protect students and staff from hazardous roads and extreme cold.
Why Ice Matters for Schools
Freezing rain and ice pose significant threats because even light ice accumulations (around a tenth of an inch) can make sidewalks, streets, and parking lots dangerously slippery. In some forecast scenarios, those ice amounts are possible across North and Central Texas, prompting extra caution from school planners.
Additionally, multiple nights of below-freezing temperatures are possible through early next week, which could prolong icy conditions on untreated surfaces and contribute to power or water infrastructure challenges that further affect school operations.
What Parents Should Know
Parents and caregivers are advised to:
- Monitor updates from local school districts for announcements on closures or delays.
- Watch official weather forecasts closely through Friday and Saturday.
- Prepare for potential hazardous travel conditions early next week if ice forms and temperatures stay low.
