Freeze Warnings and Hard Freeze Warnings Expected

The National Weather Service has advised that subfreezing temperatures are likely beginning Saturday evening and into Monday following the passage of a strong cold front. Freeze Warnings and possible Hard Freeze Warnings can be expected. High temperatures could quite possibly remain below freezing throughout the day on Monday.

Steps for Winterizing your Home

  • Insulate pipes with insulation sleeves, wrapping or using slip-on foam pipe insulation. Do not leave any gaps without insulation as cold air can affect the pipe in these spaces.
  • Winterize your sprinkler system by turning the water off to your irrigation system and drain your backflow preventer.
  • Maintain a heating source inside the building to protect pipes against cold.
  • Open cabinets underneath faucets.
  • Exterior hose bibs are normally left unattended, disconnect hoses and insulate faucets with covers or blankets.
  • House Shut off valve: Know where your shut off valve is located in case of an emergency. Valve is usually on the side of the house near the garage. Some homes the valve is inside the garage wall.
  • If you choose to leave a faucet dripping, please only let the faucet drip slowly. NO STEADY STREAMS.
  • If traveling for the Holidays, it is recommended that you turn the water off at the street and drain all your plumbing.

Arctic Cold Front – Cold Weather Preparations

According to the National Weather Service, and arctic cold front is expected to move through the Houston region late Saturday night and Sunday. Hard freezes (<24 degrees) will be a threat for many parts of southeast Texas Sunday night through Tuesday night.

Residents should ideally complete cold weather preparations before sunset Saturday. Outdoor pipes wrapped, sprinkler systems protected, backflow prevention devices drained, and have a plan for pets.

To stay up to date about the front, visit  WWW.WEATHER.GOV/HGX.

For more information about preparing for winter weather, visit WWW.READYHARRIS.ORG/PREPARE-FOR-WINTER-WEATHER.