If possible, stay inside, and follow the four p’s – people, pets, pipes, and plants.
One of the best ways to stay safe during severe winter weather is to prepare properly. With the approaching winter storm set to impact many portions of Texas, especially north of I-10, we have some tips on how to prepare as well as ways to stay informed.
With Winter Storm Landon heading into Texas on Wednesday through Thursday, there’s a possibility of lingering impacts into the weekend. Travel is expected to be difficult for many areas while power outages could occur due to ice accumulations and gusty winds.
Prolonged cold temperatures are anticipated with several areas remaining below freezing through Saturday afternoon. The storm might also include widespread life-threatening wind chills the mornings of Thursday, Friday, and Saturday.
In addition to preparing your home, remember to take care the 4 p’s- people, pets, pipes, and plants.
Simple winter storm safety tips:
- Remain indoors if possible; if you must go out, dress accordingly with layers and head coverings. Remember that many surfaces may be icy and slippery making them hard to walk on
- Keep a small emergency supply of non-perishable food and water that will last you for a day or two
- In case of a power outage, have emergency lighting such a flashlights or lanterns with a supply of batteries or fuel
- Have emergency heating equipment approved for indoor use and appropriate fuel. Gas, kerosene, or propane heaters should not be used indoors because of the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning
Ways to prepare your home:
- Prep your heater: change the filter, test your heater, and replace your thermostat if needed
- Wrap your pipes and prepare your sprinkler system
- Clean your chimney
As a reminder, TCEQ doesn’t own or operate any of the state’s 7,000 public water systems. We oversee the protection of water resources and provide hands-on guidance to local officials who operate the water systems. With that said, any notifications related to water issues or notices will come from your local jurisdictions.
Of course, heed all warning and advice from your local officials. If you can, stay home and remain off the roads.
If you must go out, you can check road conditions in your area at: DriveTexas.org.
If you are seeking warming center information, contact 211.
To notify local and state partners of warming center activations, contact your local office of emergency management
For more winter weather resources: Ready.gov/winter-weather.
You can also find more information on TCEQ’s dedicated page for Winter Storm Landon.
