A winter storm warning has been issued for the Houston area for the first time in nearly two years as a rare Gulf Coast winter storm promises heavy snow, sleet and freezing rain. The National Weather Service in League City,

The City of Houston speaks about the steps that have been taken in preparation for this week's winter storm.

Snow and ice is expected to fall in Houston later this week. Houston Mayor John Whitmire and other staff members urged residents to take steps to prepare for the upcoming winter storm.

Houston mayor John Whitmire said it's "all hands on deck" as the city expects a winter storm that promises heavy snow, sleet and freezing rain. "I've been convinced that we are about to experience a very serious and dangerous whether episode,