Winter Storm Water Damage in Texas: Pipes, Ice, Roofs

By the Water Damage Restoration Houston Editorial Team. Last reviewed November 15, 2026. Category: Winter weather.

Quick answer

Shut off the water if a pipe freezes or splits, thaw pipes slowly without flame, and call for help fast if water is already inside. Ice dams are rare in Houston but possible in North and West Texas. Check National Weather Service alerts before and during winter storms.

Frozen pipes: urgent steps

Open the faucet, shut off the main valve and thaw the pipe slowly with a hair dryer or warm towels. Never use an open flame. If the pipe split, turn off power to wet areas if safe and call for extraction and drying. See frozen pipes and winter storm water damage and burst pipe water damage in Houston.

Ice dams and snow or ice roof damage

An ice dam forms when heat escaping through the roof melts snow that refreezes at the eaves, trapping water behind it. Water then backs up under shingles and leaks into the attic and ceiling. Ice dams are uncommon in Houston but can occur in colder parts of Texas. Do not chip ice with tools or climb an icy roof. Call a roofer and arrange drying with roof and ceiling leak water damage help.

Leaks from roof hits

Hail, falling limbs and wind driven debris can crack or tear roofing, letting rain and melting ice in. Photograph the damage, tarp the opening when safe and call a roofer. Wet insulation and drywall should be dried quickly to prevent mold. See storm and hurricane water damage.

Watch live alerts

The National Weather Service issues Winter Storm, Ice Storm, Hard Freeze and Hail related warnings. The FEMA app can send National Weather Service alerts for up to five locations. Our Texas weather alerts page explains each alert and shows live alerts for Houston, Dallas, Austin and San Antonio.