Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo: Winter Storm Preparedness Update

Winter Storm Threat and Impact

• ❄️ Harris County is preparing for a significant winter weather event expected to bring very cold temperatures, freezing rain, and wind over the next three to four days.
• ⚠️ A hard freeze, defined as temperatures below 24 degrees Fahrenheit, poses a risk to infrastructure, particularly pipes.
• 🧊 Roads are a major concern, with even trace amounts of ice capable of making roadways dangerous and impassable, especially on bridges and overpasses.
• ⚡ Scattered power outages are possible but not the primary concern, though officials are in communication with CenterPoint and expecting preparedness.

Official Preparations and Actions

• 🚨 Harris County officials have activated their emergency operations center and are working around the clock to prepare.
• 🛣️ Road treatments using brine have begun, with crews applying anti-icing measures to major roadways and elevated structures.
• 🏠 Warming centers will be opened, with information to be posted on readyharris.org.
• 🤝 County departments, city partners, fire departments, hospitals, and the Red Cross are coordinating efforts.

Public Guidance and Safety Measures

• 🏠 Residents are urged to complete winter weather preparations by Saturday night and avoid unnecessary travel after Saturday evening.
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Follow the four Ps: People, Pets, Plants, and Pipes.
  • People: Stay indoors, check on the elderly and vulnerable, and encourage homeless individuals to seek shelter.
  • Pets: Keep pets indoors and ensure they have adequate supplies.
  • Plants: Bring tropical plants indoors to protect them from the cold.
  • Pipes: Insulate pipes to prevent freezing.
• 🗳️ For those in Congressional District 18, vote early as polling locations may be affected by severe weather on Sunday.
• 📢 Stay informed by listening to local news and checking readyharris.org for updates.

Home Safety and Plumbing Tips

• 🏠 Practice home escape plans and ensure a family meeting place is established.
• ⚠️ Check smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors and ensure batteries are functional.
• 🔌 Generators should be placed 5-10 feet away from the house, away from doors and windows, to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.
• 💧 For plumbing, either let sinks drip (opening cabinets to allow warm air circulation) or drain the system by shutting off the main water valve and opening faucets.
• 🧣 Ensure pipe insulation is dry; wet towels can freeze and cause more damage.
• 🏠 For apartment dwellers, check with management about pipe safety and emergency procedures, especially in unregulated 55+ communities.

Utility and Infrastructure Readiness

• ⚡ Centerpoint has activated its emergency operations center with 3,300 employees ready, and has inspected all electric facilities.
• ⛽ Compressed natural gas trailers are strategically located to address potential gas supply disruptions.
• 💧 Plumbers Local Union 68 is addressing customer concerns about pipe protection, emphasizing situational advice for dripping or draining pipes.
• 📞 Customers are advised to stay 35 feet away from downed power lines and to call Centerpoint if they smell natural gas.