Winter Weather Alert
An Arctic blast is moving towards Texas and a Winter storm watch has been issued for North and Central Texas. The Houston area is also expecting extreme cold and icy conditions. These conditions are expected through the weekend.
Prepare for Winter Weather
Winter storms in the Houston area are different from those in colder regions. Even modest freezing events can have outsized impacts due to limited winter infrastructure, exposed pipes, and high water table. Past winter storms in the region have resulted in extended power outages (a week or more), rolling blackouts, disrupted natural gas supply, fuel shortages, empty grocery shelves with purchase limits, icy road conditions, and school or business closures. Preparation ahead of time is essential.
BEFORE THE STORM: KEY PREPARATIONS
Water
Fill bathtubs and buckets for non-drinking uses (toilets, basic washing).
Store drinking water if possible (1 gallon per person per day, minimum).
Make sure any exposed pipes or hose bibs are covered with waterproof insulation materials.
Leave water running a pencil lead wide stream during sub-freezing temperatures. Running water is less able to freeze than standing water. It is nearly impossible to remove all water from your home’s pipes without specialized equipment so leaving a stream running is more effective than turning your water off.
Open sink cupboard doors to increase the flow of warm air to your pipes.
Fuel & Transportation
Top off gas tanks in vehicles before temperatures drop.
If you own a generator, store fuel safely and according to manufacturer guidance.
Avoid unnecessary driving once freezing conditions begin. Stay home and stay safe!
Clothing & Household Readiness
Stay current on laundry so you have clean, warm clothes and blankets.
Set aside extra blankets, hats, gloves, and layers.
Use paper plates and bowls to reduce water usage and cleanup needs during outages.
Power & Heating
Charge phones, battery packs, and medical devices.
Know how to safely shut off water and electricity if needed.
Never run generators, propane stoves, propane or kerosene heaters or grills indoors.
DURING THE STORM
Monitor weather and road conditions frequently.
Conserve heat by closing unused rooms (unless there is plumbing in those rooms) and sealing drafts.
STAY HOME! Houston has limited winter road treatment equipment and drivers who are not experienced winter drivers. Most vehicles in the area are not equipped with the proper equipment for icy conditions. If you must drive use extreme caution and make sure that your window washing solution is the type that does not freeze.
Check on neighbors, especially elderly or medically vulnerable individuals.
AFTER THE STORM
If your pipes have frozen:
Turn off water main and open the faucets to relieve pressure.
Thaw using gentle heat such as a space heater or blow dryer. Never use an open flame!
Watch for leaks as the pipe thaws. Leaks may not be obvious until the pipe is completely ice free. Call a professional plumber to repair leaks or weakened pipes.
Occasionally you may need to call a plumber to help thaw the pipes.
TRUSTED LOCAL RESOURCES
Weather Forecasts
Space City Weather (local, science-based forecasts):
Electric Outage Trackers
San Bernard Electric Cooperative
Road Conditions
Houston TranStar Traffic & Road Status
REMEMBER
Houston winter storms are infrequent—but when they occur, impacts can be severe and prolonged. Prepare early, stay informed, and prioritize safety for yourself, your family, and your community.