Extreme Cold Watches and Extreme Cold Warnings are relatively new.

HOUSTON — The Houston area is under an Extreme Cold Watch starting this weekend as we expect temperatures to plummet.

If that sounds like a relatively new term to you, there’s a reason.  It IS relatively new…sort of.

Back in 2024, the National Weather Service renamed Wind Chill Watches to Extreme Cold Watches. At the same time, they also changed the name of Wild Chill Warnings to become Extreme Cold Warnings.  And Wind Chill Advisories became Cold Weather Advisories. It just means it’s going to be really cold, whether there’s wind or not.


So what is an Extreme Cold Watch and Extreme Cold Warning? 

Just like with other watches and warnings issued by the NWS, the watch says it’s possible and the  warning suggest it’s expected.

An Extreme Cold Warning is the most urgent. It’s issued when extremely dangerous cold conditions or wind chill values are expected or already happening. The guidance is simple: take action. People are urged to avoid going outside altogether. If travel is unavoidable, they should dress in layers, cover exposed skin and make sure someone else knows where they are and when they arrive safely.An Extreme Cold Watch signals a potential threat but with less certainty. It’s issued when extremely dangerous cold or wind chills are possible, but the exact timing, location or occurrence is still uncertain. Residents are encouraged to prepare by adjusting plans to avoid being outside during the coldest parts of the day, ensuring their vehicle has at least half a tank of gas, and updating winter survival kits.A Cold Weather Advisory falls a step below a warning. It’s issued for dangerously cold conditions that are not expected to reach extreme warning criteria. The message here is awareness: dress appropriately, cover exposed skin and take precautions when spending time outdoors.

The Houston area will also be under a Winter Storm Watch. That just means snow, sleet, or ice are possible. If it becomes a Winter Storm Warning, that would mean that snow, sleet or ice are expected.

Throughout this winter weather, KHOU 11 will be with you, on TV, on our mobile app, and on KHOU 11+.