As we head into the weekend, Houston is a little on edge as forecasters and official weather channels are predicting severe winter conditions. While some are suspect that the whole thing is already overblown, those that endured the Texas Winter Storm of 2021 aren’t taking anything lightly.
Presently there are two important weather watches set to go into effect this weekend for Houston: Winter Storm Watch and Extreme Cold Watch. Here’s what these means and what to expect for this weekend.
Houston Winter Storm Watch
The Winter Storm Watch is described as a “severe” weather event that poses a “significant threat to life and property”. Going into effect at 6 am on Saturday, January 24, the Winter Storm Watch forecasts heavy mixed precipitation in amounts accumulating from one-tenth to three-tenths of an inch throughout southeast Texas and inland Harris. The Winter Storm watch will be in place through Sunday afternoon on Sunday, January 25.
Forecasters expect for the brunt of the stormy conditions to fall on Piney Woods and Brazos Valley regions where as early as Saturday morning (and possibly Saturday night) rainfall will transform into sleet and freezing rain – the latter being the primary concern.
As a result, residents ought to prepare for possible power outages as well as tree damage. Traveling during this time is discouraged, as road conditions will likely be hazardous.
📅 6 am Saturday morning, January 24 – afternoon Sunday, January 25
Houston Extreme Cold Watch
The Extreme Cold Watch is also described as a severe weather watch that also poses an “extraordinary threat to life and property” per the National Weather Service. According to the National Weather Service, cold wind chills as low as 7 are possible in southeast Texas and inland Harris while in effect.
At these dangerously low temperatures, hypothermia becomes a possibility if exposed skin is left unprotected. Ruptured water pipes could result were the extreme cold to be extensive.
📅 6 pm on Saturday, January 24 through morning Monday, January 26
How to prepare for Winter Storm conditions
During this time, Mayor John Whitmire and the National Weather Service, encourage residents to be prepared to remain at home and stay off the roads from Saturday afternoon through Tuesday morning.
To prepare your home, prioritize protecting what’s been called the “Four P’s”: People, Pets, Pipes, and Plants. Residents are encouraged to wrap exterior pipes and faucets with insulation– such as foam pipe sleeves, fiberglass pipe wraps, outdoor faucet covers – or towels secured with plastic and tape by Friday evening.
City officials specifically advise against dripping every faucet, as this can drop municipal water pressure; instead, they recommend knowing the location of your main water shut-off valve and draining exterior lines.
Ensure you have a three-day supply of food, water, and necessary medications, and definitely refrain from heating your home with gas stoves or outdoor grills due to the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.