Winter Weather Preparations in Texas
The city of Houston and surrounding counties are preparing for extreme cold weather and possible icy conditions this weekend. The National Weather Service forecasts southeast Texas could be hit by dangerously cold temperatures, with potentially life-threatening wind chills. Freezing rain and ice are possible from Saturday night through Monday morning.
Houston’s Preparations
The city of Houston will operate 12 warming centers, which will open starting at 5 p.m. on Saturday and remain open until further notice. These centers are located at:
- Acres Homes Multi-Service Center: 6719 W. Montgomery Rd, Houston, TX 77091
- Northeast Multi-Service Center: 9720 Spaulding St, Houston, TX 77016
- Kashmere Multi-Service Center: 4802 Lockwood Dr, Houston, TX 77026
- Moody Community Center: 3725 Fulton St, Houston, TX 77009
- Fifth Ward Multi-Service Center: 4014 Market St, Houston, TX 77007
- Denver Harbor Multi-Service Center: 6402 Market St, Houston, TX 77007
- Fonde Community Center: 110 Sabine St, Houston, TX 77007
- Metropolitan Multi-Service Center: 1475 W Gray St, Houston, TX 77019
- Magnolia Multi-Service Center: 7037 Capitol St, Houston, TX 77011
- Third Ward Multi-Service Center: 3611 Ennis St, Houston, TX 77004
- Southwest Multi-Service Center: 6400 High Star Dr, Houston, TX 77074
- Sunnyside Multi-Service Center: 4410 Reed Road, Houston, TX 77051
Harris County’s Preparations
Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo advised residents to plan to stay off county roadways starting at 9 p.m. on Saturday, when a major winter storm and potentially icy conditions are expected to move into the area. While officials said that the most immediate threat of wintry conditions is expected to impact northwest Harris County over the weekend, they said they can’t rule out icy conditions in any other part of the county just yet. Harris County has not yet provided a detailed list of warming centers across the county for the incoming storm, but this information is expected to be released online in the coming days.
Galveston County’s Preparations
Galveston County officials are gearing up for the cold weather this weekend and asking those who live around the county to prepare as well. Residents are advised to check their hurricane emergency kits and make sure they have enough water, food, and other essential supplies. The city will have additional employees on call and crews working overnight throughout the weekend, responding to any water issues like busted or leaky pipes. The warming center in Galveston County is located at Northside Baptist Church, 2801 N. Logan St, Texas City, and will be open 24/7, providing shelter, hot meals, showers, and clothing.
Conclusion
As the winter storm approaches, it’s essential for residents in Houston and surrounding counties to take necessary precautions to stay safe. By knowing the locations of warming centers, preparing emergency kits, and staying informed about the weather conditions, individuals can minimize the risks associated with the extreme cold weather. Remember to check on vulnerable neighbors, practice exit routes from your home in case of an emergency, and prepare home generators ahead of time. Stay warm and stay safe!
