Houston Prepares for Winter Storm: Brine Treatment, Vehicle Checks, and Power Outage Readiness

Road Preparation with Brine Treatment

• 🛣️ TexDot crews are preparing to spray a brine solution on major freeways starting at 8:00 AM to prevent ice from sticking.
• convoy operations will cover major corridors like I-10 and the 610 loop, followed by secondary roads in surrounding counties.
• ⚠️ Drivers are urged to give these trucks space and be cautious as crews work to ensure safety.
• 💡 The brine treatment helps slow ice formation but does not make roads entirely safe.

Vehicle and Home Preparedness

• 🚗 The National Weather Service recommends checking vehicle essentials such as battery, antifreeze, oil, and wipers.
• 🛠️ Ensure tires have adequate tread and that headlights and tail lights are functional.
• 🏠 For fireplace use, experts advise having chimneys inspected for cracks and ensuring gas hookups are in good working order.
• 🔥 When burning wood, use kiln-dried or seasoned wood and always open the damper to allow smoke to escape, closing it when finished.

School and Court Operations

• 📚 Several school districts, including HISD, Conroe ISD, and Cleveland ISD, have already postponed or canceled weekend events.
• 🗓️ No closures have been announced for Monday school days yet, but this is subject to change.
• 🏛️ Harris County Courts are monitoring conditions and will provide an operations update at noon.

Power Grid and Outage Response

• ⚡ Centerpoint is prepared for potential power outages with 3,300 electric workers and 700 gas workers ready.
• 🔌 Governor Greg Abbott stated the power grid is stronger than ever, with outages likely being local.
• 🌐 Centerpoint advises customers to sign up for power alerts and use their outage tracker on their website.
• 📱 Text 'freeze' to 713526 1111 for helpful links and information.

Storm Tracking and Readiness Deadline

• 📍 Harris County Judge Lena Hidalgo urges families to be fully prepared by 9:00 PM tomorrow night.
• 📱 A live, 24/7 radar is available on the KHOU website via a QR code for tracking the storm's progress.