A potentially record-breaking winter storm is impacting the southeastern United States, with heavy snow reported in areas that typically see little to no snowfall. Early Tuesday morning, temperatures along the Gulf Coast plunged to freezing levels.
Local resident George Card, 76, described the snowfall in Houston, saying, “This is the most snow I’ve ever seen, and I’ve been here since 1970.” A blizzard warning is currently in effect for parts of Texas and Louisiana, as the storm continues to spread snow, sleet, and freezing rain.
Forecasts indicate that the Houston metropolitan area could see four to six inches of snow by Tuesday afternoon, marking the most significant winter weather event in decades. Some areas in south Louisiana may receive up to 10 inches of snow, with Lafayette already experiencing a two-inch snowfall.
Bradley Brokamp, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service, urged caution for morning commuters, advising drivers to stay off the roads due to hazardous conditions. This storm represents the most significant winter event for the Greater Houston area since at least 1960, with visibility potentially dropping to less than a quarter of a mile.
As Arctic air continues to sweep across the nation, temperatures are predicted to plummet, with wind chills reaching as low as minus 55 degrees Fahrenheit in specific regions. The storm has caused officials in areas typically prepared for hurricanes to adjust preparations for snow, with New Orleans shutting down public transportation systems.
Governors across the Southern states have declared states of emergency. Many school campuses are closed through Wednesday, affecting areas from Texas to Florida. Airport operations have also been impacted, with major airports suspending flights due to unsafe conditions.
Cameron Kowalski, a meteorologist, noted that this is the first instance of blizzard warnings based on a combination of snowfall and high wind speeds in many areas. Louisiana officials reported snowfall that has not been recorded since the 1960s, with New Orleans expected to approach its largest snowfall in over a century.
Officials are warning residents about the potential for power outages and have advised against using gas or electric stoves for heating. Precautions include wrapping pipes and allowing faucets to drip to prevent freezing.
In Houston, the snow transformed normally busy streets into quiet landscapes. Residents ventured out to experience the unusual weather, seeking sleds and shovels for an unexpected winter outing. Meanwhile, businesses are preparing for varying customer demands, similar to how they would for hurricanes.