Winter Storm Alert: Major Icy Road Closures and Transit Suspensions in Houston Today

Hazardous Road Conditions: Ice and Major Freeway Closures

Houston is currently grappling with a significant winter storm that has brought freezing rain and dangerous ice accumulation to the metropolitan area this Sunday, January 25, 2026. Houston TranStar and local authorities are advising all residents to avoid travel if possible, as several major arteries have already reported ice accumulation on bridges and interchanges. The hazardous conditions are expected to persist throughout the day as temperatures hover in the low 30s.

Significant roadway impacts include the following:

• IH-45 Northbound at SH-242: All main lanes are currently impacted by ice accumulation as of 3:00 AM this morning. Heavy delays are reported in the area.
• SH-288 Managed Lanes: Both northbound and southbound managed lanes from the Harris-Brazoria County line to Wheeler have been completely closed since Saturday evening and remain shuttered due to ice.
• SH-99 (Grand Parkway): Eastbound lanes at Riley Fuzzel Road are experiencing major impacts due to icy patches.
• SH-242 Westbound: The interchange at IH-45 is currently restricted following reports of ice on the ramps.

METRO Service Suspensions and Rail Updates

METRO has implemented emergency service adjustments to ensure public safety during the freeze. Due to the high likelihood of icy road conditions, most public transit services have been halted. Commuters who rely on public transportation should note the following service changes:

• Bus Services: All local bus routes, METROLift, and curb2curb services are currently suspended. These services were shut down at 9:00 PM on Saturday and will remain unavailable until roadway conditions are deemed safe for operation.
• METRORail: Trains are continuing to operate today, but at a significantly reduced frequency. Riders should expect longer wait times on all rail lines.
• HOV/HOT Lanes: All HOV and HOT lanes across the Houston area remain closed until further notice.
• METROLift: Operations are currently restricted to life-sustaining medical trips only, provided that weather conditions allow for safe transport.

Ongoing Construction and Scheduled Closures

In addition to the weather-related disruptions, several major construction projects continue to impact traffic flow across the city. Motorists are reminded of the following scheduled closures:

• IH-69 Eastex Northbound: A total closure is in effect from Cavalcade Street to IH-610 North Loop for bridge repair. This closure is expected to last until 5:00 AM Monday morning.
• IH-10 Katy Freeway: Two outside lanes remain closed westbound between IH-45 and Studemont Street as part of the ongoing White Oak Bayou elevation project.
• SH-146 Northbound: Long-term construction near Wharton Weems has resulted in the closure of the exit to Spencer and the northbound entrances from Fairmont Parkway.

Commuters are urged to stay home and monitor official channels for updates. If travel is absolutely necessary, please reduce speeds, increase following distances, and be particularly cautious on elevated structures where ice forms first.