Freezing Temperatures and Power Outages in Greater Houston Area
Daisy Espinoza / Houston Public Media
Clouds hang over the Houston skyline on Jan. 23, 2024.
Freeze Warning in Effect Until 9 a.m. Monday
The Greater Houston area will remain under a freeze warning until 9 a.m. Monday morning, according to the National Weather Service.
Temperatures Plummet to Low 30s
Temperatures in the area dipped into the low 30s overnight as an Arctic freeze moved into southeast Texas. In some suburbs north and northwest of Houston, temperatures reached as low as 25 degrees. A cold weather advisory warning of below-freezing wind chills will remain in place until 11 a.m. on Monday. Temperatures will then rise into the lower 40s by Monday afternoon before dropping again overnight.
ERCOT Issues Weather Watch
Ahead of the freeze, the Electric Reliability Council of Texas on Sunday issued a weather watch across the state from Monday until Friday. The weather watch warns of higher electrical demand and the potential for lower reserves over the week. Grid conditions are expected to remain normal, according to an ERCOT press release.
Power Outages and Recovery Efforts
Power has been restored to more than 18,000 Houston area CenterPoint Energy customers in the last 24 hours, according to the company’s power outage tracking map. Around 8 a.m. Monday, 71 outages were recorded with around 1,800 customers out of power.
Preparations for Winter Weather Events
In December, CenterPoint, ERCOT and the utility company’s industry partners discussed preparations for potential winter weather events that could cause high energy demand and strain the electric grid.
Conclusion
As the Greater Houston area recovers from the recent freeze, it is essential to stay informed about the latest weather updates and power outage information. Be sure to check the National Weather Service and your utility company’s website for updates and any necessary precautions to take.
FAQs
Q: What is the current weather forecast in the Greater Houston area?
A: The area is under a freeze warning until 9 a.m. Monday morning.
Q: What is the expected temperature range for the week?
A: Temperatures will drop to the low 30s overnight and rise to the lower 40s by Monday afternoon.
Q: Are there any power outages in the area?
A: Yes, as of 8 a.m. Monday, there were 71 outages affecting around 1,800 customers.
Q: What should I do in case of a power outage?
A: Make sure to check your utility company’s website for updates and take necessary precautions to stay safe and warm.
