A rare winter storm, named “Enzo,” has hit Houston, bringing unusually cold temperatures and snowfall to the region. Amid this harsh weather, local authorities discovered a seemingly intoxicated woman lying on a freezing sidewalk with her two small children. The incident has raised concerns about safety and preparedness during such extreme weather events.
Mother and Children Found in Freezing Conditions
On Tuesday morning, the Harris County Sheriff’s Office received a distressing 911 call about a woman and her two children lying on a sidewalk in northwest Houston. Deputies who arrived at the scene found the mother appearing intoxicated, with an open alcoholic beverage nearby. Her children, just two months old and one year old, were suffering from cold-related injuries.
Emergency responders quickly provided medical assistance to the babies. The mother was taken into custody, and the Harris County District Attorney’s Office filed child endangerment charges against her. Authorities have not disclosed further details regarding the condition of the children or whether they have been placed in protective care.
Rare Winter Storm Hits Houston
Houston, a city unaccustomed to snow, is currently experiencing a rare and severe winter storm. Named “Enzo,” the storm has been described as a “once in a generation” weather event by the National Weather Service (NWS).
- The storm has brought one to two inches of snow to Houston, which is significant for the region.
- The last major snowfall in the city was three inches in 1960.
- The heaviest snowfall recorded in Houston history was 20 inches in February 1895.
Officials warn that the extreme cold will persist until at least Tuesday night, urging residents to take necessary precautions.
Weather-Related Fatality Reported
In addition to the mother and children found in distress, authorities reported another weather-related tragedy. An unhoused man was discovered dead in a restaurant parking lot on Tuesday morning. Sheriff Ed Gonzalez stated that the death was “likely weather-related,” highlighting the dangers of exposure to extreme cold.
Houston Under Extreme Cold Watch
The city remains under an extreme cold watch as temperatures continue to drop. Authorities are urging residents to:
- Stay indoors and avoid unnecessary travel.
- Check on vulnerable individuals, including the elderly and homeless.
- Keep pets indoors and ensure they have warmth.
- Use heating devices safely to prevent fire hazards.
This rare winter storm has put Houston under unexpected and dangerous conditions, emphasizing the need for preparation and awareness. As authorities continue to monitor the situation, residents are advised to stay updated on weather alerts and safety measures.
