Flight Operations Suspended at Houston Airports Amid Historic Winter Storm
Extreme winter weather has prompted Houston Airports to suspend flight operations at George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH), William P. Hobby Airport (HOU), and Ellington Airport (EFD) starting at 12:00 a.m. Tuesday, January 21. The decision comes as a historic winter storm sweeps across southeast Texas, bringing snow, ice, and dangerous road conditions that are expected to persist for multiple days.
"To prioritize the safety of our passengers and staff, all flight operations will be temporarily suspended," stated Houston Airports in a press release. "Travelers must refrain from driving to the airport after this time."
Severe Winter Weather Creates Hazardous Conditions
The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a Winter Storm Warning for Houston and surrounding areas, effective from 6:00 p.m. Monday through 6:00 p.m. Tuesday. The storm is expected to produce:
- Snow accumulations: 4 to 6 inches in southeast areas, 1 to 3 inches in west-southwest areas, and 1 to 2 inches in northern areas.
- Ice accumulations: Up to one-tenth of an inch in southern and coastal areas.
- Hard freeze: Below-freezing temperatures are forecasted areawide through Thursday morning, with a hard freeze expected Tuesday night into Wednesday morning.
These conditions will make roads extremely hazardous, with the potential for "dangerous or impossible driving conditions around the Houston metro," according to the NWS.
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Airport Preparations and Traveler Guidance
While flights are suspended, Houston Airports' teams will remain on-site around the clock to prepare for a safe and efficient return to normal operations. Efforts include deploying snowplows and heavy machinery to clear the airfields as soon as conditions allow.
Passengers with existing travel plans are advised to contact their airlines for rebooking options and refrain from attempting to travel to the airports until further notice. "Travelers must contact their airline for rebooking options and avoid driving to the airports under any circumstances," emphasized Houston Airports.
Key Safety Reminders for Travelers
- Contact Your Airline: All travelers with flights scheduled during the suspension period should check directly with their airline for updates and rebooking information.
- Avoid Driving to Airports: Roads leading to Houston's airports are expected to be treacherous due to snow and ice, and travelers are urged to stay home for their safety.
- Monitor Updates: For real-time updates on airport operations, visit Houston Airports' official website or follow their social media channels.
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A Collaborative Effort to Restore Operations
"Our dedicated teams will remain on-site 24/7, working diligently to prepare for a swift and safe return to normal operations when weather permits," stated Houston Airports. Travelers are encouraged to remain patient as staff work to mitigate the impacts of this unprecedented winter storm.
For road conditions, residents can visit Houston TranStar or Drive Texas. Additional weather updates are available on the National Weather Service website at weather.gov/hgx.
Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.
