Cold front to bring freezing temperatures to Madison County

Madison County residents should prepare for freezing temperatures and possible winter precipitation this weekend as a strong cold front moves through the region.

The National Weather Service in Houston issued a forecast Monday, Jan. 19 warning of the coldest temperatures of the season.

'A strong cold front will move through late Friday into Saturday morning, potentially ushering in the coldest temperatures of the season so far,' the agency said.

Forecasters said sub-freezing temperatures could reach all the way to the coast Saturday and Sunday. A hard freeze is possible for parts of the region, including areas north of Houston.

The cold air may bring more than just low temperatures.

'The cold air will overlap with some lingering moisture behind the cold front, leading to the potential for freezing rain or sleet Saturday into Sunday morning for parts of the region,' the weather service said.

North Zulch Volunteer Fire Department urged residents to take precautions.

'Please plan accordingly,' the department said. 'TxDOT will brine state highways and FMs but if it rains or sleets the brine washes away and then the road risks re-freezing with black ice.'

The department advised drivers to use caution.

'If you have to drive locally, remember that the dirt roads are less likely to get a layer of ice in freezing weather,' the department said.

Residents should protect people, pets, pipes and plants during the cold snap. Officials recommend checking on elderly neighbors, keeping animals indoors, insulating exposed pipes and covering outdoor plants.

The weather service said forecasts may change as the weekend approaches.