Multiple cities in southern Texas are bracing for below-freezing temperatures on Tuesday morning as the National Weather Service (NWS) warns people to "use caution" while outdoors.
Why It Matters
Winter weather swept across vast portions of the United States over the weekend and on Monday, causing flight delays and cancellations. The freeze warning in Texas is alerting residents to the potential threat of frostbite or hypothermia.
"Frost and freeze conditions could kill crops, other sensitive vegetation and possibly damage unprotected outdoor plumbing. Frostbite and hypothermia are likely if unprotected skin is exposed to these temperatures," the NWS says.
The NWS also warns people to keep their pets inside "as much as possible" and to wear appropriate clothing for the cold.
What To Know
The freeze warning is for Bee, Live Oak, McMullen, Victoria, Duval, Goliad, Inland Calhoun, Inland Kleberg, Inland Nueces, Inland Refugio, Inland Sazells, La Salle and Webb counties, according to the NWS.
Below is a map of the region, which is in a darker blue color:
The NWS says the warning starts at 3 a.m. Central Standard Time and goes until 9 a.m. CST on Tuesday. Temperatures could reach 29 degrees, with potential wind chills plunging them to 20 degrees.
Cold weather in Texas has caused concern with the Electric Reliability Council of Texas system in the past. ERCOT came under backlash after a storm in 2021 killed over 240 people and left millions of residents without power.
What People Are Saying
NWS meteorologist Sarah Barnes told Newsweek on Monday: "It is common to get these temperatures this time of year. Of course, it happens when we get these arctic intrusions. Once a year is common."
"The biggest concern is for elderly people," when temperatures dip below freezing. "As long as you have a heater you should be good," she said.
NWS Corpus Christi said on X (formerly Twitter) on Monday: "A bit colder tonight with mostly clear skies. Temperatures will fall to freezing along the Coastal Bend and inland."
ERCOT said Monday X: "An ERCOT Weather Watch goes into effect today through January 10 due to forecasted cold weather across the ERCOT region, higher electrical demand, and the potential for lower reserves. Grid conditions are expected to be normal. A Weather Watch is not a call for conservation. Sign up for TXANS emails: http://bit.ly/4a4fqMa"
What Happens Next
As the winter storm moves across the country and exits offshore on Monday, the cold temperatures in Texas will persist throughout the week, the NWS said.
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