The morning of January 21 felt magical for every Houstonian as the city embraced its historic snow day. After decades, Southeast Texas saw approximately 6 inches of snow, according to the National Weather Service, transforming the area and reminding residents why snow days are so cherished.
For University of Houston students, the announcement of class cancellations on January 21 and 22 created excitement. "My workplace isn’t open, so I figured I might as well come outside," remarked health science junior Zakyla Vosti. "This is my first time being able to see actual snow rather than just sleet and ice on the ground." This sentiment reflected the joy and novelty of the occasion.
Students on campus took full advantage of the rare winter wonderland, engaging with beloved mascots Shasta and Sasha. Together, they made snow angels and delighted students with playful snowball fights. Pre-pharmacy freshman Jay Castelan shared his experience, stating, "My snow day experience was something I was definitely not expecting when I returned to campus. It was very fun and provided me with the opportunity to not only take a mental health day but also spend more time with my friends outside of classes and extracurriculars."
Enthusiastic students captured the moment by taking pictures near iconic campus landmarks such as Cullen Fountain and the TDECU Stadium. According to education freshman Vex Butler, students creatively improvised to enjoy the snow, noting, "People used everything to sled on, from cardboard boxes, storage container lids, to even a Halloween costume Ninja Turtle shell." The resourcefulness displayed was emblematic of the spirit surrounding the day.
Yet, amid the fun, the University of Houston took proactive measures to address the storm's impact. All residence halls remained open, and Moody Dining Hall provided breakfast, lunch, and dinner services. Emergency personnel and repair teams were available to attend to any service calls, and fortunately, no major infrastructure damage was reported. Bryan Luhn, the Director of Media Relations for University Marketing and Communications, stated, "Planning and preparation occur year-round, and the University has been designated StormReady by the National Weather Service. Everyone did a great job preparing for and responding to this winter weather event, and the students seemed to enjoy the rare snow."
Residents beyond the university also experienced the wintry weather, with the winter storm leaving roads blanketed with snow and ice. Unlike the catastrophic freeze of 2021, which saw widespread power outages, many described this recent storm as providing more pleasant experiences. Residents voiced relief as they navigated the weather without the frustration of prolonged blackouts. Those living west of the Brazos had the opportunity to enjoy the beauty of the snow without the concerns associated with past storms.
While Southeast Texas is not accustomed to heavy snowfall, instances like this remind locals to celebrate the fleeting joys of winter. The enthusiasm displayed by students and residents alike underscored the magic of the moment. Sledding down makeshift slopes, throwing snowballs, and crafting snowmen are activities often reserved for colder regions, yet this unusual weather allowed Houston to partake.
Even with the joy it brought, the winter storm served as a reminder of the necessity for preparedness. The positive reception of this weather event stood in stark juxtaposition to the prolonged hardships experienced during previous freezes. Where many felt isolated and overwhelmed back then, this time, community members came together to enjoy the unexpected delight Mother Nature provided.
Overall, the historic snowfall delighted many across Houston and surrounding areas. Whether relished for the dreamy snowflakes or as bonding time with friends, the event turned out to be both exceptional and memorable. For those lucky enough to experience it, this wintry wonderland provided them with lasting memories they wouldn't soon forget.