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,

"I've been convinced that we are about to experience a very serious and dangerous weather episode," Whitmire said during Sunday's press conference.

A rare winter storm is expected to bring heavy snow, sleet and freezing rain to Florida, Texas and other parts of the South next week. While some uncertainty remains over exactly how much snow will fall,

The watch is in effect from Monday evening through Tuesday afternoon. Heavy accumulations of sleet and snow are possible.

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