Texas is slowly climbing out of the deep freeze that followed this past weekend’s winter storm, but that doesn’t mean weather impacts are finished. While snow, sleet, and freezing rain have largely moved out of the state, cold temperatures and lingering ice are setting the stage for a new, quieter hazard: freezing fog.
Over the next couple of days, many Texans will see improving conditions during the daytime, followed by renewed slick spots each night and morning as temperatures fall back below freezing.
No More Winter Precipitation, But Hazards Remain
The good news is that no additional snow, sleet, or freezing rain is expected across Texas in the near term. The storm system responsible for widespread winter weather has exited the region, and conditions are trending drier statewide.
The not-so-good news is that cold air remains firmly in place, especially across the northern half of Texas. With snow and ice still on the ground in many areas, nighttime conditions remain favorable for refreezing and fog development.
Freezing Fog Likely Tonight and Again Later This Week
As southerly winds begin to return, moisture is increasing near the surface. When that moisture combines with temperatures below freezing, dense freezing fog can develop, particularly overnight and during the early morning hours.
Freezing fog behaves a lot like a very light freezing drizzle. It doesn’t show up well on radar, but it can still deposit a thin layer of ice on exposed surfaces.
Areas most at risk include:
- North Texas
- Texoma
- The Big Country
- Northeast Texas
- Parts of Central Texas and the Brazos Valley
The biggest concern will be bridges, overpasses, and elevated roadways, though some surface streets may also become slick by Wednesday morning.
Conditions are expected to improve during the daytime as temperatures rise above freezing, but whatever melts during the day may refreeze again overnight.
Temperature Trends: Gradual Warm-Up, Then Another Cool Down
Tuesday brings a noticeable improvement for much of the state, with most areas climbing above freezing. High temperatures will range from the 40s and 50s across much of Texas, with 60s returning to South Texas and the Rio Grande Valley.
That warm-up will be short-lived at night.
- Tonight: Lows drop back into the teens and 20s for much of Texas, remaining above freezing only along the immediate Gulf Coast and far South Texas.
- Wednesday: Another mild afternoon for most areas, followed by another cold night.
- Late Week: A dry cold front arrives Friday into Saturday, bringing colder temperatures again, but no precipitation is expected at this time.
Despite the ups and downs, nighttime freezes will continue for much of Texas through the end of the week.
Road Conditions May Improve… Then Deteriorate Again
Daytime sunshine and warmer temperatures will help improve travel conditions, especially where snow and ice coverage is lighter. However, compaction from traffic and nighttime refreezing could cause conditions to worsen again, particularly in areas that received sleet.
Drivers should remain cautious during morning commutes and check conditions before heading out.
- Road conditions: drivetexas.org
- Warming shelters and assistance: 211texas.org
The Bottom Line
Texas is done with winter precipitation for now, but cold nights and freezing fog mean hazards aren’t over yet. Travel conditions may improve during the day only to deteriorate again overnight. The pattern remains dry, but cold, with another chilly push expected late this week.
Stay weather aware, especially during the overnight and early morning hours, and continue monitoring conditions if you must travel.