PRESS RELEASE
Time to Prepare: Mayor Whitmire's Winter Weather Update
January 24, 2026 -- Dear Houstonians,
As an Arctic blast approaches, I urge everyone to prepare now and use extra caution. My team at City Hall has taken every possible step to protect critical infrastructure, open warming centers, and position police officers and firefighters to respond quickly to emergencies.
- According to the National Weather Service, temperatures will begin dropping late Saturday evening, with heavy rain expected to transition into winter precipitation early Sunday.
- For that reason, I am asking Houstonians to stay off the roads beginning at midnight Saturday and plan to remain in a safe location until Monday morning. Ice buildup will create extremely dangerous driving conditions, and keeping roads clear is critical for first responders.
- To reduce risk, I have directed Tier 2 and Tier 3 municipal employees to stay home. The City of Houston Municipal Courts will be closed on Monday, Jan. 26, and many area school districts, including Houston ISD, have canceled classes and activities.
I am sharing important information below to help you, your loved ones and neighbors.
These steps are about protecting lives, and I appreciate everyone doing their part to stay safe.
Weather update news conference at the Office of Emergency Management
WARMING CENTERS WILL OPEN ACROSS THE CITY OF HOUSTON
at 5 p.m. Saturday, January 24
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Remember to protect the four P's: People, Pipes, Pets and Plants
IMPORTANT INFORMATON
Call 311 for a ride to a warming center
Office of Emergency Management website
To Report a Power Outage
CenterPoint Customers: 800-332-7143
Entergy Customers: 800-968-8243
One of the biggest questions we get is: "How do I prepare my home for a freeze?" Check out these very important tips from Houston Public Works
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Sign up now for emergency messages through AlertHouston.
Go to alerthouston.org
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SEVERE WEATHER ALERT: METRO is monitoring the winter storm and adjusting service as conditions worsen this weekend.
Saturday, Jan. 24 - Trains: Regular weekend hours
Other services: End early (9 p.m.)
More on upcoming days ➡️ bit.ly/3Lztztf
Watch Friday's full news conference with information on the weather and its potential impact on Houston. Hear reports on public safety, infrastructure, health and other concerns. Stay tuned for more updates!